2 Students Killed, Several Injured as Train Rams Into School Van in Cuddalore
A tragic collision shook Semmankuppam near Cuddalore on the morning of July 8, when a train struck a school van carrying students, resulting in two deaths and multiple injuries. The van, transporting five students and a driver, was dragged approximately 50 metres before coming to a halt. Officials say it crossed the tracks through an open, yet manned, non-interlocked gate. Preliminary rail investigations confirm the gatekeeper had begun closing the gate when the van tried to cross; the driver allegedly forced the vehicle forward, causing the deadly collision.
Emergency teams responded swiftly, with injured students taken to Cuddalore Government Hospital. Police and railway officials have launched a joint investigation, focusing on whether negligence at the crossing may have played a role.
Railway officials and eyewitnesses have depicted a chaotic scene. Locals allege the gatekeeper was asleep and only awoke moments before the accident, despite protests and gatehouse requests. Southern Railway confirms that closing mechanisms were activated but the van proceeded through, now placed at the centre of an inquiry .
The Cuddalore District Collector and Superintendent of Police visited the site to assess the emergency response. Rail services on the route were halted temporarily, and a relief train with medical facilities was dispatched to assist with evacuation and recovery.
Residents, alarmed by the mishap, gathered at the site and confronted railway staff amid accusations of neglect. Local protests erupted, demanding accountability and safety assurance
