Unauthorized Internet Cable Causes Major Disruption to Chennai Suburban Train Services
Suburban train services operating from Chennai Beach to Tambaram faced significant disruption on Saturday evening after an unauthorized internet cable fell onto the overhead electric (OH) line near Guindy railway station. The incident occurred around 5pm, leading to immediate operational challenges and delays across the network.
Commuters Stranded and Trains Delayed
According to commuters, several suburban trains experienced delays ranging from 20 to 30 minutes due to the fallen cable. The disruption caused considerable inconvenience, with at least 1,000 commuters reported to be stranded at Guindy station during the peak evening hours. Passengers expressed frustration over the unexpected halt in services, which impacted their travel plans and daily routines.
Swift Response by Railway Authorities
Railway employees acted promptly to address the situation, working to remove the cable and conduct necessary safety checks. Services were successfully restored by 5.30pm, minimizing the overall impact on the suburban rail network. The quick response helped alleviate further delays and ensured passenger safety was prioritized throughout the incident.
Southern Railway Issues Statement on Unauthorized Cables
In a statement, Southern Railway chief public relations officer Senthamil Selvan clarified that the railway has not authorized any internet cables on its premises. He noted, "Southern Railway has not authorised any Internet cables on the railway premises. But there are some unauthorised cables by private parties. We will take action to remove the cables at the earliest." This highlights ongoing issues with unauthorized infrastructure that pose risks to railway operations and passenger safety.
Broader Implications for Railway Safety
The incident underscores the need for stricter enforcement against unauthorized installations near railway lines. Such occurrences can lead to service disruptions, safety hazards, and inconvenience for thousands of commuters. Southern Railway's commitment to removing these cables promptly aims to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring smoother and safer suburban train services in Chennai.
