While villagers initially claimed that the manned gate was not closed for the passing train, a statement from Southern Railway said the gatekeeper had proceeded to close the gate. However, the van driver reportedly insisted that his vehicle be allowed to cross to reach the school on time. The gatekeeper then opened the gate, which should not have been done, the release stated.

“As the gatekeeper violated safety rules, he has been suspended, and the process for his removal from service has been initiated as per the extant procedure,” the release added.

The railway statement said six students had been injured and admitted to the hospital. It added that railway doctors are monitoring the patients at the government hospital and that they will be shifted to the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) in Puducherry if needed.

It also announced an ex-gratia of ₹5 lakh each to the families of the deceased, ₹2.5 lakh to those grievously injured, and ₹50,000 to others with minor injuries.

“A railway relief train with a medical relief van has been dispatched to the site. The Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) and branch officers are proceeding to the spot,” it said, adding that a committee of officers from the safety, operations, and engineering branches has been constituted to investigate the incident.

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