Major Accident in Karur: Goods Train Collides with College Bus at Unmanned Crossing
A severe accident involving a goods train and a private college bus has left 25 students injured, with one in serious condition, near Velliyanai in Karur district on Saturday evening. The incident occurred around 6 pm when the bus, carrying approximately 50 students from VSB Engineering College in Karuduyampalayam, attempted to cross an unmanned railway crossing.
Details of the Collision and Immediate Response
At the time of the accident, a goods train passing by collided with the rear of the college bus, causing significant damage. Local residents quickly rushed to the scene to assist, moving the injured students to Karur Government Medical College Hospital and various private hospitals across the district. Fire service officials were also dispatched to clear debris from the site.
Police confirmed that most of the injured students have been admitted for treatment, while the one seriously injured student, who suffered a head injury, was shifted to a hospital in Coimbatore for specialized care. Authorities are conducting further inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Railway Jurisdiction and Safety Concerns
In a statement, Southern Railway clarified that the incident took place on a private railway line, which does not fall under their jurisdiction. This line is owned and operated by Chettinad Cements for transporting clinker between Veerarakkiyam and Palayam. The statement highlighted that this private line includes several unmanned level crossings, raising serious safety concerns.
Karur SP Josh Thangiah visited the accident spot to investigate the matter, while local MLA V Senthilbalaji and MP S Jothimani visited the injured students at the hospital. Jothimani emphasized that the track has been unmanned for about 25 years, with no gate in place, and called for immediate safety measures.
Calls for Action and Future Precautions
MP S Jothimani stated that they will urge Chettinad Cements to install a gate and man the crossing to prevent such incidents in the future. Additionally, students have expressed concerns and requested a change of driver, highlighting broader issues of safety and accountability.
This tragic event underscores the critical need for enhanced safety protocols at unmanned railway crossings, especially on private lines used for industrial purposes. The community and authorities are now focused on ensuring proper measures are implemented to avoid similar accidents.
