News Brief
Tamil Nadu: Van Collides With Train In Cuddalore Killing Two School Kids, Gatekeeper Suspended for Alleged Negligence
The damaged school bus (X)
Two schoolchildren were killed and at least three others seriously injured on Tuesday (8 July ) when a school van was hit by a passenger train at a manned railway crossing in Semmankuppam near Cuddalore SIPCOT.
As reported by The Hindu, the van, operated by a private CBSE school, attempted to cross Level Crossing Gate No. 170 between Cuddalore and Alappakkam when it was struck by Train No. 56813 (Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai). Four students were admitted to Cuddalore Government Hospital.
Preliminary findings suggested that the gatekeeper was closing the gate when the van driver allegedly insisted on passing through. However, eyewitnesses claimed the gatekeeper had fallen asleep and failed to shut the gate, after which he was assaulted by locals. The gatekeeper has since been suspended for alleged negligence.
Southern Railway reported the van tried to cross while the gate was being closed. A relief train with medical support was dispatched, and a probe has been ordered by officials from the safety, operations, and engineering departments.
In light of the accident ,Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed condolences and announced Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh for the seriously injured, and Rs 50,000 for those with minor injuries.
