Four teenagers were killed and another injured after a Vande Bharat Express train struck them while attempting to cross tracks near Purnea Junction early Friday, officials said.
The accident occurred at approximately 4 a.m. on the Katihar–Jogbani section. Station Manager Munna Kumar stated, "A group of youngsters was trying to cross the tracks. Because it was dark and the weather overcast, they could not notice the speeding train in time."
The victims, aged between 14 and 18, were residents of the Kasba block. The lone survivor has been admitted to Purnea Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
Authorities confirmed that the group was returning from a Durga Puja fair when the train struck them around 4.40 a.m. The bodies have been sent for post-mortem, and an investigation has been launched.
The Jogbani–Danapur Vande Bharat Express, introduced in December last year, connects the border districts of Seemanchal with Patna, stopping at Saharsa, Khagaria, Samastipur and Muzaffarpur. The train leaves Jogbani at 3.25 a.m., reaching Purnea around 4.50 a.m.
Following the accident, a large crowd gathered at the site. Railway Protection Force and local police were deployed to maintain order. Officials have urged people to exercise caution while crossing tracks, particularly during early morning hours when visibility is limited.
Also read: Preparations are said to be in full swing to extend Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat to Jammu station
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