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Quick thinking by loco pilots of two express trains averted major tragedies; investigations launched into sabotage attempt
In a serious security lapse that could have led to a disastrous rail accident, two attempts to derail express trains were made. One of them, made on a Rajdhani Express, was thwarted successfully in Uttar Pradesh’s Hardoi district due to the vigilance of loco pilots. The suspected acts of sabotage have been probed at high level by the authorities.
Rajdhani Express Escapes Disaster
As per police and railway authorities, the first accident happened on Monday night, May 19, between Umartali and Dalelnagar rail stations close to kilometer post 1129/14. Dibrugarh-bound Rajdhani Express (20504) loco pilot, which had come from Delhi, noticed something blocking the track, earthing wire-bound wooden blocks.
The pilot manually engaged the emergency brakes, stopping the high-speed train. He pulled out the obstruction and informed the railway authorities, which probably averted a great disaster.
Second Attempt Targets Kathgodam Express
Within minutes of the Rajdhani Express being averted, an attempt was made to derail the Kathgodam Express (15044). The train was traveling on the same track. This was foiled as well, thanks to the presence of mind displayed by the loco pilot. Police are of the view that both attempts were pre-planned and coordinated, indicating an attempt at deliberate sabotage.
Superintendent of Police Neeraj Kumar Jadaun immediately proceeded to the spot and assessed the situation. He ordered a thorough investigation and made sure that teams of Government Railway Police (GRP), Railway Protection Force (RPF), and local police were already investigating the issue.
Hardoi Police Statement and Continued Investigation
A statement released by the Hardoi Police confirmed that the blockade was with a wooden log tied to an iron strip by wire. "The GRP and local police reached the spot immediately upon receiving information. A detailed investigation is underway to identify the miscreants," the statement indicated.
Earlier Incident in Jaunpur Raises Alarm
This is not the initial derailment plot reported this month in the state. Previously, in early May, two men from Jaunpur, Afzal Ali alias Sonu and another with the same name, were detained for trying to derail a train by laying a steel drum on the rail.
Their plan was foiled by RPF officials, and both are currently in jail under Sections 151 and 153 of the Railways Act.
Increased Vigilance Called for Entire Railway System
With several attempts at sabotage in a short period, railway authorities are keeping their fingers crossed. Investigations are in progress, and officials are calling for increased vigilance on the part of the public and railway staff to avoid the recurrence of such incidents.