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The alarming discovery of an empty gas cylinder on a railway track in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, highlights the growing threat of sabotage against India's transportation system. This incident, which occurred on Sunday, underscores the need for enhanced security measures to safeguard trains and prevent potential disasters. The incident unfolded when a goods train loco pilot, on its way to Allahabad from Kanpur, spotted the suspicious cylinder on the tracks. Demonstrating commendable alertness, the driver immediately applied emergency brakes, bringing the train to a halt near Prempur railway station. The timely action prevented what could have been a catastrophic accident.
The cylinder, found to have a capacity of five kilograms, was empty and was promptly removed from the tracks. The local police launched an investigation into the matter, treating it as a potential act of sabotage. The incident, sadly, is not an isolated occurrence. Just two weeks earlier, on September 8, another attempt was made to derail the Kalindi Express heading towards Bhiwani from Prayagraj by placing an LPG cylinder on the tracks. This previous attempt also involved an empty gas cylinder and resulted in the train hitting the cylinder before coming to a halt, showcasing the potential danger posed by such acts of sabotage.
These incidents raise significant concerns about the security of India's railway network. The use of gas cylinders, though empty, can cause serious damage and disrupt rail services, impacting not only passengers but also the economy. Authorities are actively investigating these incidents and taking steps to enhance security measures. This includes increased surveillance along railway tracks, improved coordination between railway officials and security agencies, and stricter screening of passengers and cargo. However, the success of these measures relies on a multi-pronged approach that includes community engagement, public awareness, and swift prosecution of those responsible for such acts of sabotage.
Source: Goods Train Driver Applies Emergency Brake As Gas Cylinder Found On Track