Tamil Nadu Horror: Train Hits School Bus, 2 Killed, Ex-Gratia Announced | Know What Went Wrong?

A school bus was hit by a train at the Sembankuppam railway crossing in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, resulting in the deaths of two students, while several other individuals sustained injuries. The gatekeeper of the Railway Level Crossing Gate between Cuddalore and Alappakkam has been suspended following the incident.

Photo Credit: @ANI/ X

Tamil Nadu Train Tragedy: A gatekeeper, Pankaj Sharma, at the Railway Level Crossing Gate between Cuddalore and Alappakkam has been suspended, pending an inquiry, following a tragic accident on Tuesday. A school bus was hit by a train at the Sembankuppam railway crossing in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, resulting in the deaths of two students. Two other students and the bus driver have sustained injuries.

The suspended gatekeeper of Railway Level Crossing Gate No. 170 (a non-interlocked gate) between Cuddalore and Alappakkam had allegedly opened the railway crossing gate at the insistence of the school bus driver. ANI reported, citing the Southern Railway, that a process has been initiated to remove him from service following procedures. 

Ex-Gratia, Restoration Work 

According to the Southern Railway, an ex gratia of Rs. 5 lakhs each to the kin of the deceased and Rs. 50,000 to the injured will be given by the Railways. 

The restoration work is underway at Sembankuppam railway crossing after the school bus crossing the tracks was hit by a train. 

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed condolences in a post on X and wrote, “I am deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic news of the accident in Sembanarkuppam, Cuddalore, in which two young students lost their lives. I extend my heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the parents, relatives, and friends of the deceased children.”

Stalin also announced compensation of Rs. 5 lakhs each to the families of the deceased children, Rs. 1 lakh each to those who have sustained serious injuries and are undergoing treatment, and Rs. 50,000 each to those with minor injuries.

Inquiry Into Accident

Following the incident, the Tiruchi Railway Division moved swiftly to take disciplinary action. According to IANS, a high-level inquiry committee has been constituted to investigate the exact sequence of events that led to the collision. The committee will examine CCTV footage, eyewitness statements, and railway communication logs to establish accountability and suggest safety improvements.

(with agencies' inputs)