A young woman has been injured after the van she was travelling in was hit by a train at the unprotected railway crossing on Ratnayake Road in Talpitiya, Wadduwa today.

The vehicle had been hit by a train plying from Kalutara North to Maradana, resulting in the van getting stuck by the engine of the train.

The driver of the vehicle was rescued by the area residents, while the woman was stuck between the van and the train for nearly an hour, according to reports.

The woman was rescued following joint efforts by the fire brigade and area residents and was admitted to the Panadura Hospital for treatment. 

She is reported to have sustained injuries to her leg. The victims have been identified as residents of Kottikawatte.

The front of the van has been completely destroyed, while the engine of the train has been damaged in the accident. 

The Wadduwa Police is conducting investigations into the accident.