Daijiworld Media Network

Cuddalore,  into a school van at a manned railway-level crossing in Cuddalore district on Tuesday morning, claiming the lives of two children and leaving at least six others critically injured.

The accident occurred around 7:45 am between Cuddalore and Alappakkam, sparking widespread shock and anger among locals. The van, carrying schoolchildren from a nearby village, was struck while attempting to cross the railway track.

"A total of two children from the village have died, while two others are undergoing treatment at the hospital," a senior police officer told NDTV. Emergency teams rushed the injured to a nearby hospital, and treatment is underway.

Eyewitnesses claimed that the crossing gate was open at the time of the incident, raising serious questions about whether the railway staff manning the crossing was present or if a lapse occurred. A railway official confirmed that it was a manned crossing and said, “We will come back with more details.”

The horrifying crash has reignited concerns over safety at railway crossings, especially during school hours. Locals staged a protest demanding strict safety measures and accountability from railway authorities. An official inquiry is expected to be launched to determine if negligence played a role in the fatal mishap.