Pullambadi gate reopens after protests

N Sebastian Mary Stella, the gatekeeper, was assaulted a few days ago by an unidentified duo after she refused to open the gate prior to the crossing of a train.

She refused to pay heed  to the duo’s request, as all gatekeepers were strictly instructed not to open the gate without obtaining permission. While the duo escaped after the incident, the public rescued the woman and admitted her in the Lalgudi Government Hospital for treatment.

The information was passed onto the Divisional Railway Manager (Tiruchy) and other senior officials, following which the gate was permanently closed. The authorities had also placed a banner explaining the reason for the closure.

Meanwhile on Friday, the public resorted to a protest demanding the reopening of the LC gate. Farmers led by P Ayyakannu also gathered at the spot and raised slogans, stating that the closure had inconvenienced them.

On information, the Pullambadi police rushed to the spot and held negotiation talks. 

However, the protesters disbursed only after the railway authorities reopened the gate.