After Vande Bharat Express, another train targeted by stone-pelters in Odisha

Another train in Odisha has been damaged in a second stone-throwing incident this week, just days after the Vande Bharat Express was similarly attacked. The Dakshinvihar Express had its glass window shattered on an air-conditioned coach when passing near Phatapipe on the route between Rourkela and Bandhamunda stations at approximately 18:00 on Friday. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

AC Coach Glass Window Shattered

The damaged glass window was in berth number 71 of coach B-4. The train was travelling from Durg in Chhattisgarh to Ara in Bihar when the incident occurred. Some passengers suggested that children from the nearby Phatapipe slum area might be responsible for the attack.

The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has launched an investigation into the incident. This follows a previous attack on Wednesday where the Puri-Rourkela Vande Bharat Express also experienced stone-throwing between Kansabhal and Kalunga stations at around 12:30. That attack resulted in injuries to two passengers.

Service schedule of Puri-Rourkela Vande Bharat Express revised

In a move to enhance passenger convenience, the service schedule of train No-20835/20836 Rourkela-Puri-Rourkela Vande Bharat Express has been revised. Currently operating daily except Saturday, the train will now run daily except Tuesday.

Repeated Cases Of Stone-Pelting:

The recurrence of such incidents raises concerns about the safety of railway passengers and the need for enhanced protective measures. RPF officials are urging locals to report any suspicious activity in the area to prevent further attacks and secure the safety of train services. Such episodes not only disrupt travel but also endanger lives and property.

Railways remain a crucial mode of transport in India, and ensuring their safety is of paramount importance. Authorities are keen on deploying more vigilance in vulnerable areas to deter miscreants and preserve the integrity of train operations.