Panic swept through the Mau railway junction on Tuesday morning following a chilling bomb threat call targeting the Kashi Express (15018 Down). Security forces swiftly launched a massive evacuation and search operation, which later pointed to a malicious hoax.
Swift Security Response at Mau Junction
The alarm was raised around 9:30 am when the police control room received a call claiming a bomb had been planted on the Kashi Express, which runs from Gorakhpur to Mumbai. As soon as the train arrived at Mau station, a high-level response was activated.
Police teams, led by SP Elamaran G and Additional Superintendent of Police Anoop Kumar, rushed to the scene. A coordinated effort involving the local police, the Government Railway Police (GRP), and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) was immediately put into action.
Mass Evacuation and Thorough Search Operation
Passengers were safely deboarded from the train and moved to a secure location as a precautionary measure. The authorities cordoned off platform number one and the surrounding areas to ensure public safety.
Bomb disposal squads were deployed to conduct a meticulous check of all the coaches. Every compartment was scrutinized. During the search, a bag was examined but no suspicious object was found.
Hoax Call Triggers Major Disruption
After the exhaustive search, officials concluded the threat was false. SP Elamaran G stated, "It appears to be a hoax call. Our surveillance team is working to trace the source of the call, and further action will be taken accordingly."
Railway and police authorities emphasized that the train would be allowed to resume its journey to Mumbai only after all mandatory security checks were completed to the fullest satisfaction. The incident caused significant disruption but demonstrated the alertness and preparedness of the security apparatus.
The joint teams successfully managed the situation, preventing any stampede or injury amidst the initial panic. Investigations are now focused on identifying the individual responsible for the prank call, which is a serious criminal offence.
