Indian Railways suspect sabotage behind rising fire incidents
After a series of train fires across the country, Indian Railways has officially said the fires were not accidents but were deliberately set by troublemakers. Following thorough investigations by the Railway Protection Force (RPF), the national railway found clear evidence of arson in several cases, prompting increased security measures and a strong request for passengers to stay alert.
In a statement on Wednesday, Railways officials said early investigations into four recent incidents show they were deliberate acts that put passenger safety at risk and caused panic in the railway system. “The early signs suggest that some troublemakers are trying to harm passenger safety and spread fear and chaos in the railway system,” the ministry said.
Full investigations are ongoing in each case. Passengers have been asked to report any suspicious behaviour right away by calling the Railway Helpline at 139.
One example took place near Amarpura station in Rajasthan, where someone reportedly tried to set train bedding on fire, starting a blaze. Quick action by the railway staff stopped the fire from spreading.
Similar acts of sabotage have appeared in other recent cases. Kota Division (Rajasthan/Madhya Pradesh border): On May 17, a major fire broke out in the B1 coach of the Thiruvananthapuram-Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express (Train No. 12431).
Flames were first seen coming from the bathroom area of the coach around 5:15-5:30 am, between Luni Richha and Vikramgarh Alot stations. This spot is about 110 km from Ratlam. All 68 passengers in the affected coach were safely evacuated within 15 minutes, with no injuries reported. Early checks ruled out electrical problems, supporting the sabotage claim.
In another incident, an unknown person reportedly threw a burning object into an empty coach of the Sasaram-Patna passenger train. This happened while the train was at platform six. The empty coach caught fire quickly. Importantly, no power generators were running in the coach at the time, ruling out early guesses of a short circuit.
The incident caused panic among passengers on the platform, but it was quickly brought under control by alert railway personnel.
On May 19, thick smoke was seen coming from the bathroom of a general compartment in the Howrah-Raxaul Mithila Express at Howrah railway station. Railway staff quickly put out the fire. A half-burnt piece of cloth soaked in petrol was found at the spot. This gave clear proof of arson.
It is hoped that these incidents are being treated with the utmost seriousness, with the RPF intensifying patrols, conducting forensic examinations, and coordinating with local police. No injuries or fatalities have been reported in any of the cases, thanks to the alertness of on-board staff and passengers.
However, officials have warned that such acts could escalate if not addressed firmly. The development comes amid growing concerns over railway safety, even as Indian Railways continues to expand its network and modernise its fleet. Passengers are being encouraged to stay alert, avoid leaving belongings unattended, and cooperate with security personnel.
Indian Railways has announced plans to improve surveillance, including installing additional CCTV cameras at stations and on trains. Authorities have requested public assistance in identifying those responsible as investigations continue. The railway has reiterated its commitment to passenger safety and has called for increased vigilance from all travellers.
