A false bomb threat on the Gorakhpur–Mumbai Kashi Express triggered a massive security response in Uttar Pradesh's Mau district on Tuesday. Authorities received a hoax call claiming an explosive device was planted on the train, prompting immediate action from multiple security agencies.
Major Security Operation Launched
Upon receiving the alarming information, the Government Railway Police (GRP), Railway Protection Force (RPF), and local police swiftly went on high alert. The train, Kashi Express (15018), which had departed Gorakhpur at its scheduled time of 5.53 am, was strategically halted at Mau railway station for a comprehensive security sweep.
Senior officials, including Mau SP Ilamaran G and ASP Anoop Kumar, rushed to the scene. RPF in-charge Inspector Ajay Singh and GRP station officer Rajkapoor Singh also reached the station in advance to coordinate the response. As a precaution, Platform Number One was isolated and the area was cordoned off by security personnel.
Passenger Evacuation and Intensive Search
As soon as the train arrived at Mau, all passengers were safely deboarded. A detailed search of every coach was initiated by the police and the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS). The operation lasted for approximately two hours, causing significant disruption to the train's schedule.
During the meticulous search, security teams recovered a suspicious unattended bag. The bag was immediately examined by the Railway's technical team following all standard safety protocols. However, no explosive material was found in the bag or anywhere else on the train.
Aftermath and Ongoing Investigation
After the train and the entire station premises were declared clear, passengers were allowed to re-board under strict security supervision. Mau SP Ilamaran G confirmed that nothing suspicious was ultimately found. He stated that as a precautionary measure, security checks were also extended to other trains and areas in and around the railway station.
The official emphasized that efforts are now fully focused on identifying and tracing the individual responsible for the hoax call. Such false threats not only cause public panic and inconvenience but also waste crucial security resources. The investigation into the source of the call is actively underway.
