A disturbing incident of stone pelting targeted the premium Duronto Superfast Express while the train was traveling at an operational speed of around 130 kmph during the night. The sudden barrage of stones striking the coaches mid-journey caused widespread alarm and panic among passengers on board.
Late-Night Assault Shatters Passenger Calm
The incident occurred late at night when most travelers were resting in their berths. Heavy stones struck the exterior of the coaches and window panes with loud thuds, amplified by the train's high traveling speed of 130 kmph. The sharp impacts rattled passengers, causing many to rush into coach aisles in fear of window shatter and derailment hazards.
Safety Concerns on High-Speed Rail Corridors
Indian Railways has been actively upgrading major trunk routes to facilitate train speeds ranging between 130 kmph and 160 kmph across services such as Rajdhani, Shatabdi, Vande Bharat, and Duronto Express. High speeds require secure right-of-way conditions, including track fencing and obstacle-free tracks. Incidents where moving carriages are struck by debris or rocks pose grave risks to passenger safety and can cause structural damage to modern coach glass panels.
Heightened Surveillance and Investigation
Railway protection authorities and local security teams initiated an assessment of the route section where the incident occurred. Patrolling and monitoring along vulnerable track stretches are being intensified to identify the perpetrators and deter miscreants from targeting passing express trains.
