Two killed as tractor hits train

By Our Special Correspondent

SALEM, JUNE 9. Two persons were killed and 20 others injured when a tractor hit the Vriddhachalam-Salem passenger train at an unmanned level crossing near Chinna Salem about 110 km from here on Saturday.

The mishap occurred between Kuttakudi and Siruvattur on the Vriddhachalam-Salem MG section. Traffic on the section was disrupted for more than 12 hours as the locomotive of the train derailed after the accident. The engine was ``rerailed'' only late in the night, according to Southern Railway sources.

The deceased were identified as Kaliyan (45) and Venkatesh (15), whose bodies were later taken to their native place from the accident spot. Of the injured, 15 were admitted to the Mohan Kumaramangalam Government Medical College Hospital here, where the condition of two is said to be serious. Three persons, including two children, suffered multiple injuries, according to hospital authorities.

One of the victims, Mr.Jayaram, who is undergoing treatment here, said all of them were hailing from Agarakottah near Kallakurichi. They went to Seppakkam, a near-by village, on Friday night by a tractor trailer to attend a temple function. The mishap occurred at the Eeyanur unmanned level-crossing this morning while they were returning home.

He said as it was dusk and there was a curve in the track, the tractor driver could not sight the train in advance. Before the tractor crossed the level crossing, the speeding train dashed against it, throwing out passengers travelling in the trailer. Railway officials at the zonal headquarters here said two persons died on the spot. Five persons, who suffered minor injuries, were given first aid by railway medical personnel. The remaining were taken to Salem for treatment.

Arrangements were made to transport the train passengers, they added.The officials here said the accident could have been averted if the tractor driver had followed instructions displayed near the gate. While crossing an unmanned level crossing gate, vehicle drivers were asked to check whether any train was approaching the gate. Only after ensuring that no train was in the vicinity, they were supposed to cross the gate.

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Section  : Southern States
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