A set of rules laid down for action to be taken if unclaimed articles are found in Railway Premises.
The incident of minor explosion which took place yesterday in Hubballi station was after an unclaimed luggage (a wrapped up bucket) was found in General Coach of Train no.17225 Amaravati Express that came from Vijayawada by Cleaning Staff. The same was informed to Railway Protection Force who have taken it to the Station Manager’s Office on platform no.1. On opening of the bucket, it was noticed that it was filled with lemon shaped balls. Though they checked it at that time, nothing happened and so it was moved outside the Station Manager’s office. On the Station platform, there was a minor explosion possibly because it was pressed unknowingly by the tea vendor whose palm was injured.
The procedure for unclaimed articles was followed.
It has been published by some News papers that no Railway officers were present after the incident, CCTV cameras were not working and railway has didn’t share information during the incident.
It is hereby clarified that;
- Railway Protection Force were present during the exercise. On coming to know of the incident, Shri Sudarshan N. Acharya, Assistant Security Commissioner highest officer of Railway protection Force available in Hubballi has rushed to the spot and was present throughout the investigation at station till upto 9 pm. Additional Divisional Railway Manager, Shri SK Jha visited the station while the investigation is on and address was cordoned off. Senior Railway Officers were monitoring the situation closely.
- There are 54 CCTV cameras covering whole Hubballi station and all of them are in good working order. CCTV footage has been shared with the investigating agencies, as desired.
- Since the case has been handed over to Government Railway Police, authorised to investigate this incident, further information could not be disclosed at that moment.
- It is requested to refrain from publishing negative news in sensitive issues which can lead spread fear and panic in passengers and public at large
- Railways acted with utmost responsibility that’s prerequisite in all crisis situations. At present, case is being investigated by GRP, and it will be inappropriate to disclose any information prematurely. Also it is the duty of all the citizens to act responsibly in crisis situation as any miscommunication may lead to unnecessary havoc. Railway stations are sensitive places and to maintain proper law order and to avoid confusion, investigation shall be completed first.
- This rejoinder may kindly be published/broadcast in your esteemed daily for clarification of the Public.
