Bhubaneswar, Aug 23: An unusual incident involving the Puranakatak-Bhubaneswar Intercity Express on Sunday left passengers shocked after the train’s locomotive reportedly became detached from its coaches shortly after departing Balangir.

The incident took place near the Sudapada railway level crossing.

According to available information, Train No. 12894 had departed Balangir at around 3:00 pm when the locomotive uncoupled from the passenger coaches while the train was moving at low speed. The engine then moved ahead, leaving the coaches behind.

The unexpected separation reportedly caused concern among passengers, who were left stranded with the coaches. Fortunately, all passengers were safe, and no injuries were reported.

The locomotive remained separated from the coaches for around 30 minutes before returning to the spot. Railway staff promptly attended to the issue and re-coupled the locomotive with the coaches. After the necessary safety checks were completed, the train resumed its journey towards Bhubaneswar at around 3:40 pm.

In a statement, the East Coast Railway said the situation was handled promptly and that there was no inconvenience to passengers or disruption to other train operations.

The incident, though brief, raised concerns over the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of train coupling systems during passenger operations.