Minor Blast Damages Railway Track in Fatehgarh Sahib Ahead of Republic Day; Loco Pilot Injured
In an unsettling incident just ahead of Republic Day, a minor explosion blew off a portion of the railway track near Sirhind station in Punjab's Fatehgarh Sahib district, injuring the loco pilot of a freight train and causing some damage to the engine. The blast occurred on Friday night at around 9:50 PM when a goods train was passing through the track, according to police officials who confirmed the details on Saturday.
Details of the Incident and Immediate Response
The explosion took place near Khanpur village in Fatehgarh Sahib district, at a considerable distance from Sirhind railway station. The track is primarily used for Amritsar–Delhi goods trains, as per sources. Anil Sharma, Safety Officer with the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation (DFCC), sustained a minor cut on his cheek, while other staff members remained safe. Police have clarified that reports suggesting serious injuries or major damage are factually incorrect.
Repair work was initiated immediately after the incident, and authorities expect the railway line to be made operational soon. DIG Nanak Singh, who visited the site promptly, stated that the police are investigating all possible angles. "We cannot rule out the role of anti-social elements in this incident. It is a criminal activity. However, it would be too early to link it to any terrorist activity as the investigation is still underway," he said.
Investigation and Public Reassurance
DIG Nanak Singh emphasized that coordination with other investigating agencies is underway, and the police are committed to tracing the case soon. He reassured the public, stating there is no need to panic, as law enforcement acted swiftly and initiated action on the same night. "We want to assure people that the police are actively pursuing the matter and maintaining close vigil," he added.
Sources indicate that unidentified persons may have detonated the explosive device on the track on Friday afternoon, several hours before the goods train passed through the section. This timing has raised concerns, especially with Republic Day celebrations approaching.
Political Reactions and Broader Implications
The incident has sparked sharp political reactions in Punjab. Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, president of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC), expressed alarm in a social media post, questioning the motives behind such acts. "RDX near railway tracks, blasts in public spaces — this isn't random crime. These are deliberate attempts to destabilise Punjab and spread fear. The real question: who benefits from chaos, and why is the state failing to stop it?" he wrote.
Similarly, Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), voiced deep concern in a statement. "Deeply worried and shocked by the reported RDX blast on the railway line near Sirhind, Punjab. Such incidents are alarming and threaten the peace and security which was restored after decades of turmoil. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected. I pray for the swift recovery of the injured," he said.
As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on maintaining security and preventing any escalation, particularly during the sensitive period leading up to Republic Day. The incident underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring public safety and infrastructure security in the region.
