The Central Railway (CR) has announced compensation and full medical support for two passengers who sustained injuries after an iron rod struck a Kasara-bound local train during netting work between Khardi and Umbermali on April 22.
Compensation Details
Eknath Budha Thomre (45), who sustained serious injuries, will receive Rs 50,000 as ex gratia. He is currently undergoing treatment at Jupiter Hospital in Thane. Rohit Nana Sarukte (24), who suffered minor injuries, will be given Rs 5,000.
Incident Description
The incident occurred around 4.45 pm when passengers standing on the footboard of the train were hit by a flying iron rod during rockfall protection work. Mesh netting was being installed using a Poclain machine at the time.
Preliminary findings indicate lapses in safety protocols while permitting train movement alongside heavy machinery. Officials stated that work should have been halted during the passage of trains, or additional protective measures should have been put in place for passengers.
Action Taken
In the aftermath, Central Railway has suspended three staff members with immediate effect after fixing prima facie responsibility. A senior official said, "Passenger safety is our top priority. Accountability has been established, and further action will follow after a detailed inquiry."
The CR has also initiated a review of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for netting work on the Kasara–Igatpuri section to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
