Sat Nov 02 16:59:24 UTC 2024: ## Three Track Cleaners Killed, One Missing After Train Accident in Kerala
**Palakkad, Kerala:** Three workers hired by the Indian Railways to clear waste from the tracks were tragically killed on Saturday afternoon when they were hit by the Kerala Express on the Bharathapuzha Bridge at Shoranur. A fourth worker is missing and a search operation is underway.
The victims, Lakshmanan, Valli, and Rani, all from Villupuram in Tamil Nadu, were part of a 10-member group working on the tracks. They were crossing the steel girder bridge towards Shoranur Junction when they were struck by the train at 3:05 p.m.
Instead of using the designated safety trolley refuge, the workers reportedly attempted to outrun the approaching train. Visibility was limited due to a sharp curve near the bridge, and the workers did not see the train coming.
Despite a speed restriction of 70 kmph in the area, the train was reportedly travelling at 66 kmph when the accident occurred. The loco pilot, also with limited visibility, applied emergency brakes upon spotting the workers.
Witnesses report that the fourth worker was hurled into the Bharathapuzha river after being hit. A joint search involving the Railway Protection Force, Railway Police, State police, and Fire and Rescue Services is ongoing.
The three bodies have been sent to the Palakkad District Hospital. The Railway Police have initiated an investigation into the incident.
First Piper 