A potential tragedy was narrowly averted after an attempt to derail the Prayagraj-Bhiwani Kalindi Express was foiled on Sunday morning. The incident occurred near Kanpur’s Muderi village when a train collided with an LPG gas cylinder placed on the tracks. Thanks to the quick response of the train’s loco pilot, who promptly applied emergency brakes, a catastrophic accident was prevented.
According to police reports, the collision happened at approximately 8.20 am as the Kalindi Express was on its regular route to Bhiwani in Haryana. The train, while passing through Shivrajpur, encountered an LPG gas cylinder on the tracks. Acting swiftly, the loco pilot initiated emergency braking, and though the train struck the cylinder, it was thrown clear of the tracks, averting further damage. Fortunately, no passengers were harmed, and the train was halted shortly after the collision.
The train remained stationary for about 20 minutes as the loco pilot alerted the Railway Protection Force (RPF). A subsequent stop was made at Bilhaur station for a preliminary investigation before the express train resumed its journey.
LPG Cylinder, Petrol Bomb Recovered from Tracks
In a shocking discovery, law enforcement officials found more than just a damaged LPG cylinder at the scene. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Uttar Pradesh Police also recovered a bottle filled with petrol, matchboxes, and a bag containing suspicious materials. The bottle appeared to be fashioned into a makeshift petrol bomb.
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Kanpur Commissioner of Police, Harish Chandra, confirmed that a forensic investigation has been launched. “The railways and law enforcement agencies have intensified security measures on critical railway routes,” Chandra stated. The RPF, alongside the UP Police Dog Squad, is continuing its investigation, thoroughly combing the area for further clues.
Heightened Security on Railway Routes
In response to the incident, additional security forces have been deployed along the Anwarganj-Kasganj railway route. This increased security presence is part of an intensified effort to prevent any further threats to railway safety.
For now, railway authorities are taking no chances, with heightened vigilance across critical points in Uttar Pradesh’s rail network. The swift action by the loco pilot and law enforcement agencies averted a major disaster, ensuring the safety of passengers aboard the Kalindi Express.
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by Indian Railways, and authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of those responsible for the act.
