Mysore: Railway Protection Force thwart sabotage attempt

Team Udayavani, Nov 15, 2023, 7:53 PM IST

Mysuru: The Railway Protection Force averted a potential disaster after they discovered an attempted act of vandalism on the railway tracks between Nanjangudu and Kadakola stations. The incident involved placing iron sleepers and wooden blocks on the tracks, posing a serious threat to the safety of passengers on the Express train traveling from Chamarajanagar to Mysore (Train No. 06275).

The quick response and extreme caution exhibited by the Loco Pilot (Driver) of the train played a pivotal role in preventing a catastrophe. The driver’s timely actions ensured the safety of passengers and thwarted the malicious attempt to sabotage the train.

Railway Protection Force and Railway Police apprehended three individuals – Somay Marandi, Bhajanu Murmu, and Dasamat Marandi – in connection with the incident. The accused deliberately placed iron sleepers and wooden blocks on the rails at KM No. 19/200-300, forcing the train carriage to come to a halt.

Upon receiving information about the incident, the Assistant Defense Commissioner of Mysore Railway Protection Division, MNA Khan, along with Post Commander La KV Venkatesh and their team, as well as the RPF’s dog squad, rushed to the scene. Their swift action successfully averted a potential disaster.

Somay Marandi, a native of Jaldiha, Bangiriposi, Mayurbanj, Odisha, was found at the spot and, upon interrogation, confessed to the attempt of sabotage. The accused have been handed over to the Mysore Railway Police for further investigation, and a case under Cr.No.39/2023 U/s 150(1)(A) of the Railway Act-1989 has been registered against them. The ongoing investigation could lead to severe penalties, including a possible life sentence.

As a consequence of the incident, train number 06275 experienced a temporary halt, causing a brief delay in the movement of trains on that route.

Shilpi Agarwal, the Divisional Railway Manager of Mysore, praised the timely action of the train driver and the swift response of the security forces. She also inquired about the safety and well-being of the passengers.

The railway administration issued a stern warning to the general public, emphasizing the dangers such activities pose to passengers and the potential loss of life. Strict actions will be taken against anyone found guilty of engaging in such sabotage activities on the tracks.