Honesty Prevails as Bengaluru RPF Recovers Valuable Trolley for Distraught Passenger
In a heartening incident that underscores the integrity and dedication of railway personnel, a Bengaluru-based tech company employee experienced a rollercoaster of emotions during a recent train journey. What started as a panic-stricken scenario transformed into a testament to the unwavering honesty and duty-consciousness still thriving within the Indian railways.
A Fateful Journey Turns Chaotic
On a Sunday evening, Karun Sharma, accompanied by his family, embarked on a trip from Bengaluru to his native place in Himachal Pradesh to attend a wedding. Laden with nine bags, including a crucial red trolley containing gold jewellery and cash, the family arrived at Yelahanka railway station. They boarded the Karnataka Express bound for Delhi at 8 pm, expecting a routine journey.
However, chaos ensued when the family realized that only eight bags were with them—the red trolley was missing. "I was completely shaken. That bag had gold jewellery and cash meant for a wedding back home. For a moment, I thought it was all gone," Karun recalled. The missing trolley held approximately 100 grams of gold jewellery valued at nearly Rs 17 lakh, along with Rs 2 lakh in cash.
Swift Action and a Desperate Search
As commotion broke out in the coach, with family members questioning each other, it became clear that each had assumed the other had taken the red trolley. While they pondered their next move, the train halted near Rajanukunte station to allow another train to pass. Seizing this opportunity, Karun decided to disembark and rush back to Yelahanka station along the tracks.
"By around 8:30 pm, I was back at the station and started searching frantically for the bag," he said. Unable to locate it at their initial waiting spot, Karun immediately alerted Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and lodged a formal complaint through the Rail Madad online grievance system.
RPF's Diligence Leads to Recovery
RPF officials sprang into action, meticulously combing the platform. Just as Karun began to lose hope, the missing red trolley was discovered lying unattended near a family waiting at the station. After completing all necessary formalities, the RPF handed over the trolley and its contents to Karun, intact and secure.
"I honestly didn't expect to get it back. The RPF personnel just didn't give up the search. Their sincerity and honesty are commendable," he expressed, overflowing with gratitude towards the railway officials.
Increasing Efficiency in Lost Property Recovery
Senior RPF officers note that such recoveries are becoming more common due to quicker reporting and coordinated efforts. Data from the South Western Railway (SWR) zone reveals that in 2025 alone, the Bengaluru division recovered 256 lost items worth Rs 88.3 lakh—a significant increase from the 236 items valued at Rs 84.8 lakh recovered in 2024.
"We deal with such complaints regularly and recover valuables worth lakhs every year. Passengers must remain cautious, but they should also know that help is available," emphasized a senior RPF officer, highlighting the proactive measures in place to assist travelers.
This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the reliability and commitment of railway staff, offering reassurance to passengers across the nation.
