Samastipur Railways Takes Action After Hydrant Pipe Drags Train
The Samastipur railway administration has cracked down on a private contractor and a senior section engineer. This decisive move follows a serious incident that damaged railway property and created a potential safety hazard.
Incident Details: Pipe Dragged for 140 Meters
The event unfolded late on Monday night at platform number 3. At approximately 10:54 PM, a hydrant pipe undergoing installation became entangled with a coach of the Jaynagar-Howrah Express (train number 13032) as it entered the station.
The pipe did not simply snag. It was dragged for a considerable distance of nearly 140 meters along the platform surface. This forceful dragging caused visible damage to the platform's floor tiles. It also inflicted harm on one of the train's coaches.
Samastipur divisional railway manager Jyoti Prakash Mishra provided details of the immediate response. "We stopped the train immediately," Mishra stated. "To prevent further damage and ensure everyone's safety, our team freed the pipe by cutting it with a gas cutter."
Strict Penalties and Accountability Measures
The railway administration did not delay its response. Officials imposed a substantial financial penalty on the private contractor responsible for the hydrant installation work. This penalty reflects the severity of the lapse.
Furthermore, the administration issued a formal memo to the senior section engineer overseeing the area. This memo demands a written explanation. It specifically asks why disciplinary action should not be initiated against the engineer for negligence in duty.
Divisional Railway Manager Mishra left no room for ambiguity regarding safety standards. "We will tolerate no negligence when it comes to passenger safety," he emphasized. "There will be absolutely no compromise on safety issues within this division."
Passenger Inconvenience and Broader Safety Review
The incident caused significant disruption for travelers. Sources indicate the Jaynagar-Howrah Express was detained at the platform for about 90 minutes. This delay undoubtedly inconvenienced many passengers on board.
In the wake of this event, the Samastipur division has initiated a broader safety review. Officials have ordered a comprehensive safety audit. This audit will examine all hydrant points and related facilities at every station under the division's jurisdiction.
Railway officials reiterated their core priorities. The protection of passenger safety and railway infrastructure remains paramount. Any instance of negligence will continue to face strict and swift action, as demonstrated in this case.
