Pune: Two major mishaps were averted as train loco pilots applied emergency brakes in time after they observed iron nails and other objects on the railway track. Two such incidents were reported in April and May this year.
Pune Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Milind Deouskar told Sakal Times, “The incidents were reported 10 days back between Rukadi and Hatkalangne railway stations in Kolhapur section. However, the loco pilot saw the nails in time and immediately applied emergency brakes.”
More recently, in the Talegaon-Kamshet section, unknown miscreants made an attempt to derail the Hyderabad-Mumbai Express by putting a big piece of iron on the track. However, the piece was noticed by loco pilot (train driver) and he stopped the train in time, later this object was removed.
A similar incident occurred near Dehu Road station in December last year. A piece of rail was kept on the track and it was hit by the Pune-Lonavala Local train engine. Luckily, nobody was injured.
DRM Deouskar added, “In another incident reported in last October, in the Nandre-Sangli section last October, when the train number 12136 was passing from there, loco pilots saw more than 20 iron rods on the track. They stopped the train immediately and removed those objects. This incident points out that mischievous elements may have plotted the conspiracy. A FIR has been lodged in this regard and the police are further investigating the case.”
Then similarly, on December 2, 2018, some children stuck an iron plate in the gap of tracks between Adarki and Wathar stations in Satara. At the same time, a passenger train (51409) was passing by at a speed of 50 km/hr and six wheels of the engine derailed. As the speed was low, there was no major damage. Police had detained the children and a court had found them guilty. They were released after taking an undertaking from their parents.
Anti-social elements are being monitored constantly. Police are also keeping a watch, informed Deouskar.
The railway administration has appealed that such elements should refrain from such acts, which may lead to loss of life and property. If they are found to be involved in sabotage, conspiracy, strict action will be taken against them under different sections of the Railway Act, under which they can be given life imprisonment.
