Agartala, November 20: In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the region, three persons were killed on the spot after a Bolero pickup van collided with the Agartala–Silchar passenger train at Manu Ghat SK Para in Tripura’s Dhalai district on Thursday. The accident occurred at an unmanned railway crossing, raising renewed concerns over safety measures along vulnerable stretches of the route.
According to preliminary information, the Bolero pickup was reportedly speeding toward the crossing and attempted to pass over the tracks despite the train’s approach. Eyewitnesses stated that the vehicle driver either miscalculated the timing or failed to notice the incoming train in time. The passenger train struck the vehicle with tremendous force, leaving the Bolero completely crushed and throwing debris across the track.
Three of the occupants inside the van died instantly due to the impact. Another individual travelling in the vehicle narrowly escaped with his life after managing to jump out just seconds before the collision. His timely reaction is believed to have saved him from fatal injuries, though authorities are yet to confirm his condition.
Police personnel, along with teams from the fire and emergency services, immediately rushed to the accident site to carry out rescue and recovery operations. The bodies of the deceased were extricated from the mangled remains of the vehicle and transported to Manu Hospital for post-mortem examinations. Officials confirmed that efforts are underway to identify the victims, as no documents or identifiable belongings were found at the scene.
Railway authorities, local police, and district administration officials have begun a joint assessment of the incident to determine the precise cause and evaluate safety lapses. The mishap has sparked widespread concern in the locality, with residents demanding urgent installation of barriers, warning systems, and surveillance measures at unmanned railway crossings to prevent such tragedies in the future.
