NOB_Srikakulam: Four Intermediate students were killed and one sustained critical injuries after being hit by an express train in Tekkali mandal of Srikakulam district on Wednesday afternoon.

The accident took place near Ravivalasa railway track, close to Burma Colony, in Tekkali mandal. According to police, five students had gone for fishing in the floodwater and ponds that were filled due to heavy rains under the influence of a cyclone.

While they were crossing the railway track on their return, the Bhubaneswar-Gunupur Rajya Rani Express, which was traveling from Bhubaneswar towards Gunupur, hit them. Four youths died on the spot due to severe injuries.

The deceased were identified as Visakha Rao, Dileep, Sharath and Shiva. The injured youth was identified as Salman Raju.

All five are said to be Intermediate (Class 12) students staying at the SC/ST Government Hostel in Tekkali and natives of Damara village in Tekkali mandal.

Locals who witnessed the incident alerted authorities and shifted the injured youth to Tekkali District Hospital for treatment. His condition is said to be critical.

Following the incident, Tekkali Police, railway officials and Tekkali RDO Krishnamurthy rushed to the spot and launched rescue operations. Police have examined the site and shifted the bodies for post-mortem examination.

Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu took stock of the incident and directed revenue and police officials to expedite relief measures and provide immediate assistance to the victim’s families.

A pall of gloom descended on Damara village after the sudden death of four youths. Family members of the deceased students were inconsolable.

Police have registered a case and an investigation is underway to ascertain the precise circumstances leading to the accident.

Deceased:

1. Visakha Rao

2. Dileep

3. Sharath

4. Shiva

Critically Injured:

1. Salman Raju