LPG Cylinder Found on Delhi–Howrah Track, Kaifiyat Express Driver Prevents Major Mishap

Aligarh (The Uttam Hindu): A major accident was narrowly avoided on Sunday morning on the Delhi–Howrah rail route in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, when an LPG cylinder was found lying on the railway track in a densely populated area. The loco pilot of the Azamgarh–Delhi Kaifiyat Express spotted the cylinder in time and applied emergency brakes, preventing a potentially serious disaster.

This incident comes amid a high-security alert across the state following a recent explosion in Delhi, prompting immediate action from security agencies.

Loco Pilot’s Alertness Saved Lives

According to information, the incident occurred around 5:20 AM. As the Kaifiyat Express was passing between Seema Phatak and Jail Pul in Aligarh, the loco pilot noticed a 3-kg LPG cylinder placed right in the middle of the track. Sensing danger, he immediately applied emergency brakes and stopped the train.

Railway staff and a team led by RPF Assistant Commissioner Gulzar Singh reached the spot. Investigation revealed that the cylinder was completely empty. Officials removed it from the track and inspected the route.

Sabotage Attempt or Mischief?

Although the cylinder was empty and no explosive material was found, its presence raised serious concerns about whether it was a deliberate attempt to derail the train or an act meant to disrupt rail traffic. Officials said that if the train had hit the cylinder at high speed, the wheels could have derailed.

Based on a complaint from patrolman Kuldeep Gupta of the Railway Engineering Department, a case has been registered under the Railway Act against an unidentified person at Bannadevi police station.

Joint Investigation by Police and RPF

After the incident, railway authorities, police, and RPF prepared a joint report. SP City Mrigank Shekhar Pathak said that an active investigation is underway and the matter will be solved soon.

Police teams are scanning CCTV footage from Seema Phatak and nearby areas to find out how the cylinder reached the track. Whether it was thrown accidentally, placed intentionally, or part of a larger plan is being probed. Patrolling along the route has been increased after the incident.