Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu | July 8, 2025
In a tragic incident early this morning, a van carrying school students collided with a passenger train at *Railway Level Crossing Gate No. 170, located between *Cuddalore and Alappakkam in Tamil Nadu. The accident occurred at approximately 7:45 AM when the Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai passenger train (Train No. 56813) struck the vehicle attempting to cross the tracks.
According to preliminary reports from *Southern Railway, *six students sustained injuries and have been rushed to the Government Hospital in Cuddalore for immediate medical attention. The van was allegedly trying to cross the tracks at a non-interlocked level crossing, despite the gate being in the process of closing.
Emergency Response Underway
Following the collision, a railway relief train equipped with a medical relief van was dispatched to the site to provide emergency aid. The Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) and several senior officers from the Operations, Safety, and Engineering branches are en route to the accident spot to oversee relief measures and begin an investigation.
What Went Wrong?
Initial findings indicate that the gatekeeper was actively closing the crossing when the van driver insisted on proceeding, a move that clearly violated safety protocols. This reckless decision led to a direct impact with the oncoming train.
A committee of railway officials has been formed to investigate the incident. The panel includes officers from the Safety, Operations, and Engineering departments, who will thoroughly examine the sequence of events, assess any procedural lapses, and recommend further safety measures.
Rising Concerns Over Unmanned & Non-Interlocked Crossings
The accident highlights ongoing concerns about *non-interlocked level crossings, which are **not connected to centralized railway signaling systems. These types of crossings rely on manual operations and are particularly vulnerable to human error. This tragedy adds to the growing call for **automated gates, **enhanced driver awareness, and *strict enforcement of crossing rules.
Official Statement from Southern Railway
“Preliminary inquiry reveals that while the gatekeeper was in the process of closing the gate, the van driver insisted on crossing, which should not have been permitted. A committee of officers is investigating the matter,” — Southern Railway Official Spokesperson
Key Takeaways:
- Time & Location: Around 7:45 AM near Gate No. 170 between Cuddalore and Alappakkam, Tamil Nadu.
- Casualties: Six students injured and undergoing treatment at Cuddalore Government Hospital.
- Train Involved: Train No. 56813, Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai passenger service.
- Cause: Reckless attempt to cross a non-interlocked gate before it was fully closed.
- Response: Railway medical van dispatched, DRM and senior officers en route.
- Investigation: Multi-departmental committee set up to probe the incident