Kolkata, July 17: A tragic accident occurred in Murshidabad district of West Bengal on Friday morning when a train collided with a school van. This devastating incident resulted in the deaths of four individuals, including three schoolchildren. Additionally, three other students and the van driver sustained serious injuries and have been hospitalized.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the railway gatekeeper’s negligence contributed to the accident. Despite knowing that the Nimta-Katwa local train was approaching at high speed, the gate was left open.
Witnesses reported that the collision happened around 7 AM. Just before the incident, the Nabadwip Express, heading towards Howrah, had passed through, and the Govindpur railway gate remained open.
Local residents recounted, “Seeing the gate open, the school van carrying several students attempted to cross the tracks. At that moment, the Nimta-Katwa local train sped in and struck the van directly.”
An eyewitness told the media, “The van driver was not at fault. He was crossing the railway line and had no idea that the train was approaching at such a high speed.”
The impact of the train completely mangled the school van. Local residents initiated rescue efforts and alerted the police. Upon arrival, the police took possession of the deceased and transported all the injured to the hospital.
A police officer stated, “Four people, including three schoolchildren, died at the scene. Three other children and the van driver are in critical condition. They have been taken to the nearby Baharampur Medical College and Hospital for treatment. We cannot rule out the possibility of the death toll rising.”
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