Cuddalore Train-School Van Accident: 3 Children Dead, Gatekeeper Suspended for Negligence
Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu — July 8, 2025:
A tragic accident took place near Semmankuppam in Cuddalore district on Tuesday morning when a school van carrying students was hit by a passenger train at a railway level crossing. Three children lost their lives, and several others were seriously injured in the crash.
#WATCH | Tamil Nadu | School bus crossing railway tracks hit by train in Sembankuppam, Cuddalore District
Details awaited. pic.twitter.com/uk6vYz6hhf
— ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2025
The incident occurred at Level Crossing Gate No. 170, a manned but non-interlocked gate located between Cuddalore and Alappakkam. According to reports, the van — belonging to a private CBSE school — was attempting to cross the tracks when it was struck by the Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai passenger train (Train No. 56813).
Authorities say the gatekeeper had begun the process of closing the gate. However, the van driver allegedly urged him to allow the vehicle to pass — a move that should not have been permitted. In contrast, some eyewitnesses claimed that the gatekeeper had fallen asleep and failed to close the gate in time, leading to the tragic collision.
The injured children were rushed to the Government Hospital in Cuddalore for treatment.
Following the incident, local residents and onlookers expressed outrage, and the gatekeeper was physically assaulted by the crowd before police intervened. The railway authorities have since suspended the gatekeeper for negligence pending a full investigation.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has announced an ex-gratia for the families of the deceased and ordered a detailed probe into the incident. Officials have promised strict action based on the investigation findings.
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