Location: Semmankuppam, Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu
The Incident
At approximately 7:40 AM on July 8, a school van carrying four children and a driver attempted to cross the tracks at Level Crossing Gate No. 170 near Semmankuppam, Cuddalore district. The Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai Express (Train No. 56813), traveling at an estimated 95 kilometers per hour, approached from behind and struck the vehicle.
The force of the high-speed impact dragged the van nearly 50 meters, leaving it completely mangled and scattering books and belongings across the tracks. Three young students lost their lives at the scene or shortly after. The surviving student and the driver sustained serious injuries. A local resident who attempted to help was also injured. All survivors were taken to Panruti Government Hospital.
Eyewitness Speaks: “He Was Asleep… the Gate Was Open”
A local witness recounted:
“It was the regular time for crossing—the gate was open. The train came suddenly. The gatekeeper didn’t lower the gate—he had fallen asleep.”
“No horn was sounded. I believe full fault lies with the gatekeeper appointed by the Central Government.”
Community in Mourning, Demanding Answers
Residents swiftly gathered at the site, confronting railway officials and demanding answers. The crossing has long been a concern for safety-conscious locals, many of whom had previously requested an underpass or automated gate systems at the location.
Investigation Suspended Gatekeeper
Local authorities reportedly suspended the on‑duty gatekeeper pending a full inquiry. While no official statement has been released, early indications point toward a serious lapse in protocol—whether due to human error or procedural failure.
Spotlight on the Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai Express
Train Details:
- Train Number: 56813
- Connects Villupuram Junction (VM) to Mayiladuthurai Junction (MV)
- Covers approximately 122 km, stopping at around 20–22 stations, including Panruti, Cuddalore Port, and Alapakkam
- Typical journey time: 3h 15m to 3h 20m
- Runs daily with unreserved seating, catering to local commuters and school routes
Service Disruption:
Following the incident, multiple passenger services on the same route were suspended or diverted. Officials confirmed that at least three trains were partially cancelled to facilitate cleanup and repairs at the accident site.
Infrastructure Gaps Under Scrutiny
This collision reignites scrutiny over railway crossing safety—especially at level crossings still operated manually without full interlocking or automation. Transportation experts and civic groups now urge:
- Construction of underpasses at high-risk crossings
- Automation and CCTV surveillance at manned gates
- Regular audits and medical screening of gatekeepers
- Training and awareness programs for school transport providers
Some local leaders are also pushing for a judicial inquiry to investigate why long-requested safety upgrades had not been implemented at this location.
Conclusion
The tragic deaths of schoolchildren in Semmankuppam are a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of infrastructural oversight. Whether this incident will finally trigger reform in railway crossing management remains to be seen. For now, a grieving community demands justice, answers, and systemic change to ensure no child faces such a fate again.
