Bhadrak, June 28: A man was arrested on Friday for allegedly hurling stones at the Howrah-bound Jan Shatabdi Express (Train No. 12074) in Odisha’s Bhadrak district, causing damage to a coach window but resulting in no casualties or injuries.
The incident occurred around 8:15 AM between Randia-Baudpur and Bhadrak railway stations while the train was en route to Howrah. According to official sources, the stone pelting targeted coach number D/13, where the impact shattered a windowpane. Fortunately, no passengers or railway personnel were injured in the attack.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Khurda Road Divisional Security Control responded swiftly by launching a trackside search operation. The accused was traced and taken into custody shortly after the incident.
Although the motive behind the stone-pelting remains unclear, authorities have confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. Officials have refrained from commenting further on the identity of the accused or the possible intent behind the act.
Railway officials reiterated their focus on passenger safety and urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near railway tracks to the nearest authorities. They also reminded citizens that such acts not only endanger lives but are punishable offences under railway law.
This incident echoes a similar attack earlier this year on May 17, when the Puri-Hatia Tapaswini Express was allegedly struck by stones during the early hours, damaging an AC coach window.
Railway authorities are yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest incident.
