A devastating accident in Tamil Nadu’s Semmankuppam has claimed the lives of at least two schoolchildren after a passenger train collided with a private school van at a manned railway crossing. The incident has sparked public outrage and raised serious concerns about level crossing safety.
Image Source:thehindu
A tragic train accident occurred early Tuesday morning in Semmankuppam, Tamil Nadu, when a passenger train collided with a school van at a manned railway level crossing. The collision resulted in the death of at least two schoolchildren and left several others, including the driver, injured.
The accident took place around 7:40 AM at Level Crossing Gate No. 170, located along the Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai railway route. The school van was transporting students from Krishnaswamy School when it attempted to cross the tracks. At that moment, the Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai Express was approaching at full speed.
Initial reports suggest that there was a failure in safety protocols. Eyewitnesses claim that the gate was not properly closed at the time of the incident, with some alleging that the gatekeeper had fallen asleep. However, conflicting accounts state that the gatekeeper had manually shut the gate, but the van driver insisted on crossing regardless. The van was struck and dragged for several meters, leaving the vehicle severely damaged.
Among the victims were two children aged around 10 and 15. Three others sustained serious injuries and were rushed to the nearest government hospital for emergency treatment. The van driver also suffered injuries and remains under medical supervision.
The accident triggered chaos and protests in the local area. Angry residents gathered at the site, some attacking the gatekeeper in frustration. Police forces were deployed to restore order and prevent further violence. Authorities have since suspended the gatekeeper and launched a high-level inquiry to determine the exact cause of the failure.
In response to the tragedy, railway officials sent a medical relief train and temporarily suspended services on the affected route. The Tamil Nadu state government also announced ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased and the injured.
This incident brings renewed attention to the persistent dangers at manned level crossings across India. Despite repeated incidents in recent years, many such crossings still lack automatic interlocking systems or proper surveillance. Experts are calling for urgent upgrades in railway infrastructure and stricter enforcement of crossing rules to prevent such tragedies.
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Location: Semmankuppam, Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu
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Date/Time: July 8, 2025, around 7:40 AM
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Casualties: At least two children dead, several injured
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Cause: Alleged safety lapse at level crossing
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Response: Gatekeeper suspended, official investigation underway
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Relief: Financial compensation announced for victims
