Did an Alert Train Driver Prevent a Major Accident in Punjab?

Synopsis
A potential railway disaster was averted in Punjab when a train driver detected a cot on the tracks, halting the train just in time. The quick response led to the arrest of a suspect, raising serious concerns about railway safety in rural areas. Authorities promise increased surveillance to prevent future incidents.
Key Takeaways
- Alert train driver
- Iron cot
- Suspect identified
- Incident raised concerns about railway safety.
- Authorities to enhance surveillance and patrols.
Mansa (Punjab), May 24 (NationPress) A significant disaster was averted near Mansa in Punjab when an object obstructed the railway track. This incident unfolded as train number 12137, the Punjab Mail, traveling from Delhi to Firozpur, was compelled to halt near the kilometre mark 245/01, adjacent to the Mansa railway station.
Authorities reported that an iron cot (charpai) had been intentionally placed across the railway track during the night. The vigilance and swift actions of the train's loco pilot prevented a catastrophic event, as the train was stopped just in time.
The obstruction caused by the cot was detected before the train could reach it, averting a potential derailment or serious damage.
The Government Railway Police (GRP) immediately initiated an investigation and reviewed CCTV footage from the surrounding area. Their search led to the identification and subsequent arrest of a local resident named Lali.
Initial investigations suggest that the suspect may have intended to instigate a severe accident. The police are continuing their inquiries to uncover his motives.
DSP Jagmohan Singh from GRP Bathinda confirmed the arrest, stating: 'Thanks to the vigilance of the train driver, a major mishap was averted. Based on CCTV evidence and intelligence inputs, we apprehended a man named Lali. He appears to have placed the cot with the intent to cause disruption or harm. Interrogations of the suspect and related individuals are ongoing.'
This incident has raised substantial concerns regarding railway safety and the security of tracks, particularly in rural and less monitored regions.
Officials have pledged to enhance surveillance and intensify patrols to prevent such occurrences in the future.
In the meantime, train services experienced a brief delay but resumed shortly after the obstruction was cleared. Fortunately, no injuries or damage were reported.