Kalindi Express narrowly escapes disaster after gas cylinder, objectionable materials found on tracks

The train came to a halt for approximately 20 minutes as the crew and passengers were alerted to the presence of the cylinder on the tracks. (Image: News18)

The Kalindi Express narrowly avoided a catastrophic accident after hitting a gas cylinder placed on the railway tracks in Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred around 8 PM as the train was en route from Prayagraj to Bhiwani in Haryana.

According to News18, the gas cylinder, which was positioned near the Munderi village crossing between Barrajpur and Bilhaur stations on the Kanpur-Kasganj route, was forcefully thrown about 50 meters away due to the impact of the collision. Fortunately, the train’s emergency brakes were applied in time, preventing what could have been a major disaster.

An FIR has been registered, and the police have detained two individuals for questioning. Six investigative teams have been assembled to solve the case.

The train came to a halt for approximately 20 minutes as the crew and passengers were alerted to the presence of the cylinder on the tracks. Railway authorities were immediately notified, and the Railway Police Force (RPF) along with the Government Railway Police (GRP) launched an investigation into the incident.

Kanpur Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Harish Chander, confirmed the situation, stating, “The loco pilot noticed the cylinder on the tracks and applied emergency brakes, but the cylinder was still struck and thrown aside. The train was halted, and RPF officers informed local police.”

ACP Chander added, “In addition to the damaged cylinder, some other objectionable materials were found on the tracks. Senior officers and forensic teams are currently assessing the situation. Despite this, the train route remains unaffected, and all services are running as scheduled.”

Additionally, authorities have identified a bottle recovered from the scene as a molotov cocktail. A sweet box, purchased from Chibramau in Kannauj, was also found at the location.

This incident follows a series of similar occurrences, including a derailment of the Sabarmati Express in Kanpur in August after it collided with a sharp object on the tracks.

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Union Minister Giriraj Singh and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw have both expressed alarm over these incidents, with Vaishnaw noting ongoing investigations into the disturbances and emerging disturbing trends.