Thanks to the alertness of drivers of both APSRTC and Visakha-Gunupur passenger train, as many as 58 students had a providential escape at a level crossing at Patapatnam in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday evening.

According to local people, the railway gateman did not ensure closure of gates despite the arrival of the train near the level crossing. The bus driver, who observed the moving train at the last minute, used the reverse gear and pulled back the vehicle promptly.The loco pilot Ramana too slowed down the train, averting major mishap.

Fortunately, the passenger train was running at normal speed. Otherwise, it could have been a disaster, said local people. The passengers heaved a sigh of relief after the miraculous escape. They congratulated both the drivers but agitated against the dereliction of duty by the gate man.

The railway officials who reached the spot assured the bus passengers that they would report the matter to the higher authorities and take action against the gateman and other staff. The train got delayed by 45 minutes following protest by passengers.