Loco Pilot’s Vigilance Prevents Major Railway Tragedy in Uruli Kanchan
An alarming incident unfolded in Pune’s Uruli Kanchan village on Sunday night when a gas cylinder was discovered placed on a railway track. Thanks to the vigilance of loco pilot R.T. Vani of the Shatabdi Express, a potential catastrophe was averted. This disturbing episode, now suspected to be an act of sabotage, has sparked concern among local authorities and the community.
The incident occurred near kilometre marker 219/7-5 on the Pune-bound railway track at around 10:45 PM. The loco pilot noticed the small, filled gas cylinder placed on the middle of an adjacent track. Demonstrating quick thinking, he slowed the train, brought it to a halt, and retrieved the cylinder. Later, the cylinder was handed over to the police station at Pune railway station for further examination. Thankfully, no injuries or casualties were reported, as the loco pilot’s alertness prevented any accident. However, the incident has raised significant safety concerns among residents and railway authorities alike. The residents of Uruli Kanchan have expressed both fear and frustration over the incident. A local shopkeeper commented, “It’s terrifying to think what could have happened if the train had collided with the cylinder. The authorities must act swiftly to ensure the safety of passengers and locals.”
This sentiment is shared widely, with many calling for heightened security measures along railway tracks. For the people in the vicinity, this event has underlined vulnerabilities in the system that could endanger countless lives. Following the incident, a case was registered against unknown individuals at the Uruli Kanchan Police Station. Railway police officer Sharad Shahaji Walke, who lodged the complaint, emphasised the seriousness of the situation. Senior Police Inspector Shankar Patil confirmed that investigations are underway to identify those responsible. “The incident appears to be a deliberate act of sabotage,” Inspector Patil stated. “We are treating it as a priority and have increased surveillance in the area. Any objections or suggestions from the public will also be considered in our investigation.”
While officials have yet to confirm whether this was an isolated incident or part of a larger plan, they are working closely with railway safety teams to prevent similar occurrences. This event is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in ensuring railway safety. While the incident ended without harm, the potential consequences could have been devastating. For passengers and railway staff, it highlights the need for improved security measures and community engagement to identify and mitigate threats. As investigations continue, the community remains hopeful that swift action will not only bring the perpetrators to justice but also bolster safety measures along railway routes. For now, the loco pilot’s quick response serves as a reassuring example of the dedication and responsibility of railway personnel in safeguarding public lives.
