Horror Unfolds in Cuddalore: School Bus Hit by Train, Innocence Lost
Tamil Nadu Mourning the Loss of Young Lives
Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu — July 8, 2025 — A quiet morning turned tragic in Semmankuppam, near Cuddalore, when a passenger train brutally collided with a school van, claiming the lives of two innocent children and seriously injuring at least four others, including the van’s driver.
Tamil Nadu #trainaccident : School Bus Hit by Train in Cuddalore, 2 Children Dead, Several Injured https://t.co/wdyKhquvzj pic.twitter.com/HFoq0A7Lpg
— The Glocal Chronicles (@TheGlocalcnews) July 8, 2025
The accident occurred at a manned railway crossing — yet one with no interlocking system — as the van attempted to cross the tracks near the Semmankuppam gate. The train involved was Train No. 56813 Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai Passenger, which hit the vehicle with such force that it was flung several meters from the crossing.
What Happened: A Timeline of the Tragedy
The van, operated by a private school, was carrying young students for their morning classes. As it approached the crossing between Cuddalore and Alappakkam, it reportedly tried to beat the train, even though the manned gate was not interlocked with the train signals.
A Moment Too Late
In just seconds, a peaceful school ride turned into a disaster. The train thundered into the vehicle, crushing its side, leading to immediate fatalities and severe injuries. Eyewitnesses reported loud screams, mangled metal, and the unbearable sight of school bags strewn across the tracks.
The Victims: Children With Dreams Cut Short
The two children who lost their lives were between 7 and 10 years old, both bright students full of dreams. Among the injured are three more children and the van driver, all of whom have been rushed to Cuddalore Government Hospital.
Critical Injuries, Families in Shock
Doctors have indicated that the condition of at least two children is critical, and the next 24 hours will be crucial. Family members have arrived at the hospital, many unable to speak, simply clutching schoolbooks and photographs — the only things left unscathed.
A System Failure?
The crossing where the accident occurred was a non-interlocked manned gate — a type of crossing where the gate is controlled manually and not electronically synced with approaching trains.
Was This Avoidable?
Locals argue that with better infrastructure and automatic interlocking systems, this disaster could have been prevented. Accidents at railway crossings are not new in India, especially in semi-urban and rural areas where manual operation still persists.
Railway officials have confirmed an inquiry has been launched to investigate the circumstances, gate operations, and potential negligence.
Witness Account: “Everything Happened in a Flash”
Rajasekaran, a shopkeeper nearby, witnessed the horrific event unfold:
“The bus stopped, then moved slowly as if trying to cross before the train. Within seconds, the train hit. Children were crying… it was unbearable.”
Volunteers and locals rushed to the site, pulling injured children from the wreckage and calling emergency services. One mother, whose child survived, sat beside the twisted bus, whispering prayers with trembling hands.
A Wake-Up Call for Authorities
This is not just an accident — it’s a wake-up call for Indian Railways and school transport authorities. How many more young lives must be lost before technology and strict safety protocols are enforced nationwide?
Parents entrust schools and public infrastructure with the safety of their children. The failure to uphold that trust has cost lives, and it cannot be ignored any longer.
Prayers, Grief, and Calls for Justice
As Tamil Nadu reels from the loss, schools across the region observed moments of silence. Social media is flooded with hashtags like #SchoolBusAccident, #CuddaloreCrash, and #JusticeForChildren, as people express anger, sorrow, and demand accountability.
Chief Minister and Railway officials have assured support to the families and promised strict action against those found negligent.
