Woman Passenger Injured in Stone-Pelting Incident on Moving Train in Udaipur
A shocking incident of stone-pelting targeted a moving passenger train in Udaipur on Thursday morning, resulting in injuries to a young woman and prompting an emergency halt. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has detained one individual in connection with the attack as investigations intensify.
Attack Occurs Shortly After Train Departure
The alarming event unfolded when the Udaipur City–Madar passenger train was passing through the Jharnon ki Sarai area, shortly after departing from Rana Pratapnagar Railway Station in Udaipur. According to official reports, an unidentified assailant hurled a stone from outside the railway premises, which smashed directly into a general coach.
The projectile struck Shambhul Sheikh, a 22-year-old resident of Fatehnagar, squarely on the face. The violent impact not only caused immediate injury but also shattered her spectacles, leaving her bleeding profusely below the eye. Passengers described scenes of chaos as Sheikh screamed in pain and horror, compelling fellow travelers to act swiftly.
Emergency Response and Search Operation
In response to the crisis, passengers immediately pulled the emergency chain, forcing the train to an abrupt halt. RPF personnel, along with vigilant passengers, disembarked to conduct a thorough search of the surrounding area. However, the attacker managed to flee into nearby bushes before authorities could apprehend him, highlighting the challenges in securing vast railway networks.
The injured woman was carefully deboarded at Debari railway station and promptly transferred to Maharana Bhupal Hospital via ambulance for urgent medical treatment. Her condition is being closely monitored as authorities prioritize her recovery.
Legal Actions and Heightened Security Measures
RPF officials have registered a formal case against an unknown person under relevant sections of the law. Amit Sudarshan, Chief Public Relations Officer of North Western Railways, emphasized the severity of such offenses, stating, "Unauthorised movement along railway tracks, stone-pelting at trains, or placing objects such as stones or iron rods on tracks are non-bailable offences, as railways are national property."
In a bid to prevent future incidents, security has been significantly bolstered in the affected area. Sudarshan further revealed, "RPF has been asked to be extra vigilant in the area where the incident has taken place. IB, CID, and state police have been alerted. One suspect has also been detained." This multi-agency approach underscores the seriousness with which railway authorities are treating this act of vandalism and violence.
Broader Implications for Railway Safety
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats to passenger safety on Indian railways. Stone-pelting attacks not only endanger lives but also disrupt essential services, causing delays and instilling fear among commuters. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activities near railway tracks to help combat such crimes effectively.
As investigations continue, the RPF is leveraging all available resources to identify and trace the attacker, ensuring that justice is served and such reckless acts are deterred in the future.
