At least 500 passengers travelling on the Howrah-bound Rajdhani Express (2302) from New Delhi had a narrow escape on Monday morning when its engine derailed near Baruipara station in Hoo-ghly district. No passenger was hurt and no coach of the train was derailed.
The authorities, who initially suspected sabotage, later ruled it out. The railway ministry has ordered an inquiry. “The derailment took place at around 9.20 am when the two front wheels from the express train’s engine jumped off the track. More than 500 passengers were on board,” said Eastern Railway CPRO Samir Goswami.
“The two wheels were found derailed, damaging a 1.7 km stretch along the track. The derailment site was 500 metres away from Baruipara station,” said Eastern Railway general manager V.N. Tripathy. At least 300 pandrol clips were found removed from the track, Mr Goswami added.
The train was running at a speed of 128 kmph, recalled its driver Mahendra Singh.