Darjeeling (WB), Sep 2 : Eight workers were injured after a portion of a locoshed of Darjeeling railway station in West Bengal collapsed on Wednesday amid incessant rainfall, an official said.
The affected workers of the UNESCO world heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway were provided with medical treatment, the DHR official said, adding that none suffered any serious injuries.
In a remarkable display of courage and dedication, the affected railway workers prioritised road safety and traffic movement immediately following the collapse, clearing heavy debris before seeking medical treatment for their own injuries, she said.
“A section of the historic locoshed in Darjeeling town collapsed due to torrential rain and gusty wind, injuring eight railway workers on duty,” DHR spokesperson Prateeksha Chetri said.
The collapse of the locoshed situated beside the arterial Hill Cart Road led to significant rubble deposition onto the adjacent roadway, partially obstructing traffic movement, she said.
“Despite sustaining injuries, the affected locoshed personnel immediately rallied to mitigate the situation. Before departing for medical evaluation, the team worked together to clear the debris from the roadside, restoring vehicular traffic,” Chetri said.
All the injured workers were subsequently transported to local medical facilities for treatment.
“Medical staffers confirmed that no serious or life-threatening injuries were sustained,” she said.
Senior DHR officials reached the spot following the collapse to assess damages and restoration.
According to the IMD data, Darjeeling town recorded 37 mm of rainfall in 24 hours till 8.30 am on Wednesday.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast heavy rain in Darjeeling district till Saturday morning. (PTI)
