Palakkad Train Attacks: Vande Bharat, Chennai Mail Targeted in Stone-Pelting Incidents
Repeated incidents of stone-pelting on trains have sparked significant concern among railway authorities and passengers in the Palakkad railway division. The alarming rise in such attacks along tracks in Palakkad and Kozhikode districts has heightened safety worries, with the perpetrators remaining unidentified.
Recent Attacks on Key Trains
Last week, two major trains were targeted near Parali, approximately 9 kilometers from Palakkad Junction. On Friday, the Ernakulam-Bengaluru Vande Bharat Express (train number 26652) was attacked around 4:30 PM. The assault resulted in damaged window panes in one of the coaches, prompting the loco pilot to file a formal complaint with the Railway Protection Force.
In a separate incident on Thursday night, which coincided with polling day, stones were hurled at the Chennai Mail Express near the same location around 8:00 PM. This attack caused injuries to one passenger, adding to the growing list of victims.
Pattern of Disruption and Earlier Incidents
The repeated stone-pelting attacks have not only endangered lives but also severely disrupted train schedules. Affected trains are often forced to make unscheduled halts, leading to widespread inconvenience for passengers and operational delays.
Earlier, a similar attack was reported between Kadalundi and Feroke near Kozhikode, where stones were thrown at the Kannur Executive Express. This incident seriously injured a woman passenger, underscoring the violent nature of these assaults.
Authorities' Response and Ongoing Concerns
Railway authorities are actively investigating the incidents, but the lack of identified culprits has compounded safety concerns. The pattern of attacks in the region suggests a coordinated or recurring threat that requires urgent attention to prevent further harm and disruption.
Passengers and local communities are calling for enhanced security measures along vulnerable stretches of the railway tracks to safeguard travel and restore confidence in the rail network.
