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A devastating collision between a school bus and a train in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore district has left three schoolchildren dead and several others injured, sending shockwaves across the state and prompting urgent calls for enhanced safety at railway crossings.
The tragic incident occurred when a school bus was attempting to cross an unmanned railway gate and was struck by the Villupuram-Mayiladuthurai Express. The violent impact fatally injured three students, while several others, including the driver, sustained serious injuries.
Emergency services rushed the injured to Cuddalore Government Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment. Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number of injured individuals.
Preliminary investigations suggest a grave lapse in safety protocol: the railway gate at the crossing was reportedly left open, allowing the school bus to proceed onto the tracks. The train collided with the vehicle moments later, leaving little time for escape.
In response to the accident, the Indian Railways has announced an ex-gratia compensation of ₹5 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to each of the injured.