Rajkot (Gujarat), Feb 2 (NationPress) - In a tragic incident, two individuals lost their lives, and another sustained critical injuries when a speeding Vande Bharat train collided with them near a level crossing in Gujarat's Rajkot on Monday, as per official reports.

The accident took place near the Maldhari level crossing close to Gondal Chowkdi between Bhaktinagar and Ribda railway stations in the Bhavnagar division while the train was on its regular route.

Initial investigations indicate that three men entered the railway track and were struck by the train.

One of them was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other two suffered severe injuries and were transported to a hospital.

Sadly, one of the injured succumbed to his injuries during treatment, raising the death toll to two. The third individual continues to receive medical care at Rajkot Civil Hospital.

Local residents quickly notified emergency services, prompting response teams from the 108 ambulance service, railway police, and local law enforcement to arrive at the site.

Kirtanbhai Parmar, a representative from the 108 emergency ambulance service in Rajkot, stated that they responded promptly after receiving the call.

"We were informed that three individuals had been struck by a Vande Bharat train. Upon arrival, one person was already confirmed dead. The other two were in critical condition and were transported to the civil hospital, where one unfortunately passed away during treatment," he elaborated.

Railway officials reported that operations on the affected line were temporarily halted.

An official from the Rajkot railway administration mentioned that the Vande Bharat train was held for a while to facilitate medical assistance and necessary formalities.

"Once all protocols were followed, the train resumed its journey around 5:40 p.m. The incident had a partial impact on the railway schedule," the official noted.

The deceased are thought to be migrant workers employed in local factories. Their identities are yet to be confirmed, and authorities are working to notify their families.

There are local speculations that the individuals might have been trying to take selfies or record videos near the tracks at the time of the accident.

However, police have stated that this is yet to be verified and remains a part of the ongoing investigation.

A senior officer from the Railway Protection Force revealed that a comprehensive inquiry has been initiated to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

"We are looking into whether this was purely an accident or if other factors were at play. Witness statements are being collected, and all necessary legal processes at the scene have been completed," the officer confirmed.

Authorities anticipate clearer insights following the recording of the injured survivor's statement and further examination of evidence.