In a heartbreaking incident on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, two school children were killed and four others injured after their van was struck by a passenger train at Semmankuppam, near Cuddalore SIPCOT. The van, belonging to a private CBSE school, was attempting to cross Railway Level Crossing Gate No. 170 - a manned but non-interlocked gate - when it was hit by Train No. 56813 Villupuram–Mayiladuthurai Passenger.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the van driver insisted on crossing even as the gatekeeper began closing the barrier, which was reportedly against protocol. However, eyewitnesses allege the gatekeeper had dozed off, failing to close the gate in time - leading to outrage among locals, some of whom reportedly assaulted the gatekeeper at the scene.

The injured children were rushed to Cuddalore Government Hospital, where they are undergoing treatment. Authorities have launched an inquiry to determine the exact sequence of events and establish accountability.

The tragic accident has once again raised concerns about safety at manned railway crossings and the need for stricter operational vigilance near school zones.