A recent harrowing incident unfolded on the evening of September 17, 2025, near Katpadi, where an express train was seen approaching an open level crossing. This alarming situation quickly escalated into a heated confrontation between concerned road users and the gateman on duty.
Railway sources later clarified that the gateman was shockingly unaware of the fast-approaching train due to a critical telecommunication failure. This disruption cut off vital contact between him and the Station Master, from where the train had originally departed.
The near-disaster occurred around 10 p.m., specifically between Polur and Mathimangalam railway stations within the Tiruchi Division of Southern Railway. Eyewitnesses recounted the train blaring its horn continuously as it neared the dangerously open crossing. This urgent warning prompted furious motorists to confront the gateman, accusing him of a severe lapse in duty. Fortunately, the gate was eventually closed, and the train passed without incident, according to sources.
The Root of the Problem: Communication Breakdown
A senior railway official, speaking to The Hindu on Saturday, confirmed that the entire episode stemmed from a telecommunication malfunction. He explained that since the gateman could not be contacted, the loco pilot was issued a “caution order,” permitting them to proceed towards the gate at a reduced speed. As it was an interlocked level crossing, the signal automatically turned to ‘danger.’ Upon spotting the train, the quick-thinking gateman initiated the standard safety protocol, locking the gate to allow the train a safe passage.
The official emphasized that, despite the scare, no safety guidelines were ultimately violated, and an inquiry into the incident has been launched. He noted that the primary impact of the telecommunication failure was solely on train punctuality, requesting anonymity due to the ongoing investigation.
This incident comes on the heels of a series of recent accidents at level crossings across various railway zones, including a tragic collision near Alapakkam railway station that claimed the lives of three school students. In response, the Ministry of Railways has promptly issued a fresh safety advisory, aiming to prevent any similar occurrences nationwide.
The Railway Board has expressed profound concern over these recurring mishaps and has issued directives to all zonal railways. These directives mandate ensuring clear, unobstructed visibility of both road traffic and boom barriers from the gate operating panel, which is crucial for timely and safe operations. The advisory strictly states: “Gatemen must rigorously ensure that no vehicle is present between the boom barriers before initiating gate closure.”
Mandating Vigilance and Strict Compliance
Labeling these incidents as “unfortunate events,” the Railway Board has urged General Managers across all zonal railways to diligently monitor compliance with safety protocols and guarantee their stringent implementation throughout the network.
The advisory further instructs senior officials to regularly inspect and verify that all road safety devices – such as signals, signage, hooters, and speed breakers – are fully operational and capable of effectively alerting road users. It also stresses the importance of ensuring that all operational facilities necessary for safe gate operation and emergency handling, as detailed in the Gate Working Rules (GWR), are functional at every level crossing.
Furthermore, officials are now required to conduct routine counseling and training for gatemen, coupled with systematic inspections of level crossing gates. These measures are designed to assess and reinforce gatemen’s familiarity with both routine procedures and crucial emergency protocols.