A tragic collision between a passenger train and a school van claimed the lives of three people, including two school students, in West Bengal’s Murshidabad district on Friday morning, while several others sustained serious injuries.
The accident occurred at a level crossing between Karnasubarna and Gobindapur railway stations on the Azimganj–Katwa railway section, where a passenger train struck the school vehicle carrying children to school. The impact left the van badly mangled, triggering a large-scale rescue operation by local residents, police and railway officials.
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According to officials, two students died at the scene, while another victim later succumbed to injuries. At least four other students were admitted to hospital, with some reported to be in critical condition. The injured were rushed to Murshidabad Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
Preliminary reports indicate the collision took place at a manned railway crossing. Eyewitnesses alleged that the railway gate was open when the school van attempted to cross the tracks. Railway authorities have not confirmed the cause of the accident, and an official inquiry has been launched to determine the sequence of events and whether any lapses contributed to the tragedy.
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The incident sparked anger among local residents, who gathered at the accident site demanding accountability and stricter safety measures at railway crossings. Police personnel were deployed to control the situation as rescue and investigation teams continued their work.
Railway and district authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is underway. The findings are expected to establish the exact circumstances surrounding one of the deadliest school transport accidents in the region in recent months 