Gopalakrishnan, a retired engine driver from Kanjikkulam at Chelappara, still trembles as he recalls the moment the Mangaluru–Chennai Mail was crossing the Kadalundi bridge. “The vacuum meter in the engine room started fluctuating. It felt like the train was being pulled backwards. When I looked back, water from the river was shooting up above the level of the bridge. I rushed and saw one part of the train submerged,” says the 79-year-old, his voice faltering.

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Gopalakrishnan

Even after 24 years, the emotional burden has not left his chest. Watching helplessly as 58 people lost their lives in an accident not caused by his error has left a scar that time has not healed. The incident occurred on June 22, 2001, at 5.10 pm, as the 19-coach train was heading towards Chennai. The train was travelling at approximately 68 km/h, but had slowed as it approached the bridge. After the engine and 12 coaches had crossed, Gopalakrishnan felt a strong jolt in the engine room. When he looked back, he saw five coaches had plunged into the river along with passengers.
He immediately informed the station and jumped down onto the track with a detonator to prevent oncoming trains. He then drove the remaining 12 coaches to Shoranur station.

Initially, blame was directed at the engine driver. However, later investigations confirmed that Gopalakrishnan was not at fault. He was also entrusted with operating the first train across the newly rebuilt Kadalundi bridge.

He also averted another potential tragedy near Thirunavaya in Malappuram, when a lorry veered onto the track — Gopalakrishnan’s quick reflexes saved the train and its passengers. For this, Indian Railways honoured him with a Certificate of Meritorious Service.

He retired from service on April 30, 2004. Since then, Gopalakrishnan has lived a quiet life at his home ‘Gopika’ near the Melemampulli Siva Temple in Kongad. Every year, on June 22, he visits temples including Thiruvilwamala and Rameswaram, accompanied by his wife Lalitha, to offer prayers in memory of the tragedy.

His children are Smita, Smithan and the late Smishra.