Tamil Nadu students killed school bus train tragedy struck early Tuesday, July 8, 2025, in Cuddalore district at Semmankuppam level crossing. A private school bus carrying four students collided with passenger train No 56813, killing two children and injuring three others—including the driver—sparking immediate rescue efforts and raising serious safety questions.
What Exactly Happened?
Why Tamil Nadu Students Killed School Bus Train Incident Occurred
At around 7:40–7:45 am, the school van tried crossing the non-interlocked Level Crossing Gate No 170 between Cuddalore and Alappakkam. Witnesses say the gatekeeper was slow—or asleep—and the driver insisted and forced the crossing, despite an approaching Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai passenger train. The train hit the van, dragging it for nearly 50 metres.
5 Crucial Updates: Tamil Nadu Students Killed School Bus Train
1. Two Students Dead, Three Injured
Victims include Charumathi (17) and a 10‑year‑old boy Venkatesh who dies on the spot or later in hospital. Three others—two students and driver Sankar (45)—are in Cuddalore Government General Hospital.
2. Gatekeeper Under Fire
Locals allege the gatekeeper, Pankaj Sharma, was asleep and failed to close the gate timely. Police and railway suspended him pending probe.
3. Driver’s Role Questioned
Preliminary investigation suggests the bus driver forced the gate open at dawn rush and insisted crossing—a factor in the collision.
4. Rescue & Official Action
A Southern Railway medical relief train was rushed; SP Jayakumar confirmed investigation underway by Railway Police, State Police and multi-branch railway committee.
5. Compensation Announced
Tamil Nadu CM Stalin announced ₹5 lakh ex‑gratia for each deceased family, ₹1 lakh for seriously injured, ₹50k for minor injuries. Southern Railway also pledged ₹5 lakh (deceased) and ₹50k (injured).
Official & Local Response
Reactions After Tamil Nadu Students Killed School Bus Train Incident
- CM Stalin expressed condolences, ordered additional safety checks at crossings and fast support.
- SP Jayakumar confirmed attempts to close gate but driver pressured; wider crossing audit ordered. Public outrage led villagers to assault gatekeeper; police had to restore order.
Broader Impact: Safety Spotlight
Audits & Policy Demand
The tragedy spotlights need for manned vs automated crossings. Authorities propose tech upgrades, CCTV, strict gatekeeper protocols, and school transport safety norms.
Legal & Disciplinary Action
Investigations may include criminal negligence against driver/gatekeeper and railway staff if found negligent. Parents demand accountability.
Timeline of Events
- 7:40–7:45 am: Local school bus attempts crossing.
- Train No 56813 approaches and collides.
- Immediate rescue by villagers and railway teams.
- Injured rushed to Cuddalore Hospital.
- Investigation launched, compensation announced throughout the day.
What Happens Next?
- Railway committee (Safety, Ops, Engineering) submits probe report.
- Safety improvements: camera/sensor install at crossings, gatekeeper training, school-driver guidelines.
Holding responsible parties: pending FIR, suspensions, policy review.
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