Koggala Railway Crossing Collision: Express Train Hits Private Bus Rear, Injuring Six Passengers

A serious accident occurred today at the railway crossing near the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Art Centre, close to the Koggala Export Processing Zone, when the rear section of a passenger bus collided with an express train. The express train, traveling from Beliatta to Colombo Fort, was approaching as the private bus, known locally as 'Visekaraya', attempted to navigate across the tracks. Although the driver managed to clear the front of the bus past the danger zone, the rear portion failed to cross in time, taking the full impact of the oncoming locomotive. The collision heavily crushed the rear passenger entrance, seats, roof, and bodywork of the bus, leaving it extensively damaged. Six passengers seated in the rear compartments sustained injuries during the impact. Local residents and the Sri Lanka Police promptly intervened, rescuing the victims and arranging urgent transfer to the hospital for medical treatment. The incident caused temporary disruptions to railway operations along the Coastal Line, with Habaraduwa Police and Railway Security officials conducting ongoing investigations. Road Safety Takeaway: This incident highlights the critical danger of miscalculating clearance time for long-wheelbase vehicles like buses at railway crossings. Drivers must strictly adhere to the 'Stop, Look, and Listen' rule, ensuring the entire length of the vehicle can safely clear the tracks before proceeding. Always prioritize passenger safety in high-risk zones, and in the event of an emergency, immediately dial the 1990 Suwa Seriya Ambulance Service.