Tue Jul 08 04:38:27 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
A tragic accident occurred at a manned railway crossing in Semmankuppam near Cuddalore SIPCOT, Tamil Nadu, on July 8, 2025. A school van carrying children was struck by a passenger train, resulting in the deaths of at least two students and serious injuries to three others, including the van driver. Initial reports suggest the van driver attempted to cross the gate before it was fully closed, while eyewitnesses claim the gatekeeper was negligent. A local resident was also seriously injured while trying to help. An investigation is underway.
**News Article:**
**Train-Van Collision Kills Two Students in Tamil Nadu**
**Cuddalore, India -** A horrific accident at a railway crossing near Cuddalore SIPCOT, Tamil Nadu, has claimed the lives of at least two school children and left several others injured. The incident occurred on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, when a school van was struck by the Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai passenger train (No. 56813) at the manned gate near Semmankuppam.
The van, belonging to a local private CBSE school, was reportedly attempting to cross Railway Level Crossing Gate No. 170 when the collision occurred. At least three other students and the van driver were critically injured and rushed to the Cuddalore Government General Hospital. Authorities fear the death toll may rise.
Initial investigations point to conflicting accounts of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest the van driver attempted to cross the tracks before the gate was fully closed. However, eyewitnesses allege that the gatekeeper was negligent and failed to close the gate in time. Angry bystanders reportedly confronted the gatekeeper at the scene.
Adding to the tragedy, a local resident, identified as Annadurai, sustained serious injuries while attempting to rescue the children. He was struck by a falling overhead power cable.
Police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the exact cause and culpability. The incident has sparked outrage in the local community, raising concerns about safety at railway crossings.
First Piper 