In a chilling incident that could have had catastrophic consequences, an attempt was made to derail the Kalindi Express train in Kanpur, India. On Sunday morning, the train, en route from Prayagraj to Bhiwani, encountered an LPG cylinder placed strategically on the tracks near Shivrajpur. The train, traveling at a high speed, struck the cylinder, causing it to be flung off the tracks. Thankfully, the train managed to come to a stop before any major derailment occurred.
Responding swiftly to the incident, police officials and forensics teams arrived at the scene, launching a thorough investigation. Further examination revealed the presence of a petrol bottle, matchboxes, and a suspicious bag containing a gunpowder-like substance. This alarming discovery points to a deliberate and planned attempt to disrupt the train’s operation.
The loco pilot, quick-thinking and alert, noticed the cylinder on the tracks and immediately applied emergency brakes. The impact of the cylinder against the train, despite the immediate braking, was enough to jolt the train and raise concerns about the intent behind this act. The train was subsequently stopped at Bilhaur station for further inspection.
Six individuals, including two known criminals, have been detained in connection with the incident. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to delve deeper into the case, seeking potential connections to the recent derailment of the Sabarmati Express, also in Kanpur. The SIT will also investigate if any religious groups, known as ‘jamaats’ in the region, had any involvement in the attempted derailment.
Authorities are taking this incident very seriously, recognizing the potential for major disaster. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice. This attempt at sabotage highlights the vulnerabilities of crucial infrastructure and the need for enhanced security measures to safeguard public safety.