Phagwara (Punjab): In a ghastly mishap, five persons, including three of one family were killed today (Feb 2, 2004) when the Jammu-bound Swaraj Express hit three vehicles at the manned local Santokhpura railway crossing.

The deceased have been identified as motorcyclist Vikas Agnihotri, his wife Monica and their 18-month-old daughter Isha, a scooterist Hardip Singh who was a retired teacher and a rickshaw puller Rajan, police said.

According to eyewitness, as the Dadar Express crossed the manned railway crossing, gateman Balwant Singh opened the barrier, following which people started crossing the track.

In the meantime, Swaraj Express came roaring on the other track, following which the gateman allegedly downed the barrier leading to trapping of persons who were crossing the track the witness said.

The train tossed away the motorcycle, scooter and the rickshaw along with their occupants, sources said.

The public present at the site caught the gateman and handed him over to police for his alleged negligence.

Meanwhile, Ferozepur division divisional railway manager (DRM) Dharam Singh, who visited the site, ordered a probe into the incident. The probe, to be held by a three-member panel, would submit its report within a week, he said.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Government announced an ex-gratia assistance of Rs 50,000 to each of the next of the kin of those killed in the mishap.