Shocking Train Fire Pattern in India Raises Sabotage Fears
New delhi: Indian Railways on Wednesday stated that recent train fire cases reported from different parts of the country may not be accidental. Preliminary assessments suggest the involvement of unidentified anti-social elements, prompting a nationwide security review. The Railways has initiated detailed investigations in coordination with the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and other agencies.
A fire reported in a coach of the Mithila Express at Howrah railway station has become a key focus of the investigation. Officials said a half-burnt piece of cloth, suspected to have been soaked in petrol, was recovered from inside the affected coach. Railway staff managed to bring the situation under control quickly, preventing what could have escalated into a major emergency.
Another serious incident occurred on the Thiruvananthapuram–Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express in Madhya Pradesh’s Ratlam district on May 17. The fire reportedly began in the toilet area of coach B1 while the train was passing between Luni Richha and Vikramgarh Alot stations. The incident took place early in the morning and triggered concerns after preliminary findings indicated possible human involvement.
Further incidents have been reported from other regions. In Rajasthan’s Amarpura area, bedding material was allegedly set on fire near a station, while in Bihar’s Sasaram, an unidentified person reportedly threw a burning object into an empty coach. Though no major casualties were reported, these repeated cases have raised alarm among railway authorities.
Following the series of incidents, authorities have intensified surveillance across the railway network. Passengers have been urged to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity through the national helpline number 139. The Railways has emphasized that all cases are being examined thoroughly to determine whether they are linked and to identify those responsible for endangering passenger safety.
