A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Kottayam, Kerala, where a 42-year-old woman and her two daughters were found dead on a railway track near Ettumanoor in the early hours of February 28, 2025. The tragedy has shocked the local community, raising concerns about mental health, family distress, and railway safety.

Details of the Incident

According to the railway authorities, the loco pilot of the Kottayam-Nilambur Road Express train reported that the woman and her daughters jumped onto the tracks as the train approached around 5:20 AM. The train was moving at high speed, and the impact resulted in their instant death. The bodies were found in a severely mutilated condition, making identification initially difficult.

Victims Identified

  • Shiny Kuriakose (42), a resident of Parolikal, Ettumanoor.
  • Aleena (11), her elder daughter.
  • Ivana (10), her younger daughter.

Possible Reasons Behind the Tragedy

Preliminary investigations suggest that the family was facing personal hardships, which might have pushed the mother to take such an extreme step. Financial distress, domestic disputes, or mental health struggles could be possible reasons, though authorities have not confirmed any specific motive.

Police Investigation and Eyewitness Accounts

The Ettumanoor police and railway officials arrived at the scene promptly after receiving information from railway staff. The loco pilot’s statement confirmed that the three individuals jumped in front of the train voluntarily, ruling out an accidental fall. However, police are conducting a thorough probe into the circumstances leading up to the incident.

  • Family and relatives are being questioned to understand any existing problems.
  • Call records and messages are being examined for clues.
  • CCTV footage from the nearby railway stations is being reviewed to track the family's movement before the tragedy.

Public Reaction and Mental Health Concerns

This tragic event has once again highlighted mental health awareness and support systems for struggling individuals. Community members and mental health experts have stressed the need for:

  • Better counseling and psychological support for families in distress.
  • Easier access to mental health resources.
  • More awareness campaigns on suicide prevention.

Railway Safety and Preventive Measures

While this incident appears to be a suicide, it also raises questions about railway safety and the need for preventive measures at railway crossings and stations. Experts suggest:

  • Installing higher fencing near tracks to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Better surveillance through CCTVs and patrolling near accident-prone areas.
  • Emergency helplines and mental health support at railway stations.

Conclusion

The tragic loss of Shiny Kuriakose and her two young daughters is a reminder of the struggles many individuals face behind closed doors. Authorities are working to uncover the exact reasons behind this incident, while social organizations and mental health advocates urge greater awareness, family counseling, and community support to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.