Train services were disrupted for roughly 40 minutes while the locomotive was inspected, after which its journey successfully resumed. Khardah police and the railway police reached the spot.

CPRO Kaushik Mitra of Eastern Railways alleged the gatesman was closing the barrier to the level crossing when the SUV “forced its way through” along with a Tata Sumo. He said, “The driver then abandoned the vehicle on the tracks and fled the scene. An FIR has been filed regarding the incident. We are also talking to state police to ensure such things are stopped.”

“We don’t understand why they don’t follow signals… strict action will be taken. It could have been a very big accident,” Mitra added.

Some local people, however, believe the gateman did not give the drivers enough time to cross.

Officials said that the collision happened at the closed label crossing between Khardah and Sodepur stations. “A car was heading towards Rahara from BT Road. Another vehicle entered the label crossing adjacent to Khardah station,” said one official. According to sources, the railway gate labelled number one had been open at the time, while gate number four was closed. “Meanwhile, the train immediately entered on the tracks between the gates, resulting in the cars colliding as well. The Tata Sumo car narrowly escaped,” said another official.