Murshidabad, 23 July (H.S.): West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Thursday visited Karnasubarna in Murshidabad to meet the families of those killed in last week's tragic railway crossing accident that claimed five lives, including four children.

Upon reaching the venue, the Chief Minister first met the bereaved families, listened to their grievances, and assured them of all possible support from the state government.

Adhikari expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, saying no amount of financial assistance could compensate for the loss of young lives. These children were like flowers. There are no words to express my grief. Personally, I have nothing to offer except my tears, but the government will fulfil its responsibility, he said.

The state government announced an ex gratia of ₹5 lakh for the family of each deceased victim and ₹1 lakh for those injured in the accident.

The Chief Minister also promised the strictest action against those responsible. Referring to the preliminary findings, he said railway and police authorities had informed him that the accident was caused by the negligence of the railway gatekeeper.

This is an unpardonable act. I assure the families that the guilty will face the harshest possible punishment, Adhikari said, adding that the government would also consider other requests made by the victims' families.

The Chief Minister was also scheduled to visit the injured victims undergoing treatment at a hospital.

The accident occurred on July 17 when a train rammed into a school van and a bicycle at an open railway level crossing in Karnasubarna, killing five people and injuring several others. The gatekeeper was suspended on the day of the incident and later arrested by Berhampore police. Initial investigations suggest he allegedly failed to close the railway gate while under the influence of alcohol.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey