KKN Gurugram Desk | A stone-pelting incident targeting the Vande Bharat Express has once again raised serious concerns over passenger safety and railway security infrastructure in India. The latest attack took place on Saturday evening, on the Bhagalpur–Dumka railway section, when miscreants threw stones at the Bhagalpur–Howrah Vande Bharat Express, damaging windows and causing panic among passengers.

According to railway officials, no injuries have been reported, but severe damage was inflicted on windows in Coach C-7, particularly on seat numbers 41 and 42, where window panes were shattered.

 What Happened? Details of the Stone Pelting Incident

The Bhagalpur–Howrah Vande Bharat Express departed from Bhagalpur station at its scheduled time of 3:05 PM. As it approached the Hat Puraini–Tikani stretch, an animal reportedly came under the wheels of the train. The incident allegedly angered some local residents, who then targeted the train with stones, leading to panic and fear among onboard passengers.

Passengers described the scene as chaotic, with screams and panic spreading through the affected coaches. Fortunately, no one was physically injured, but the experience left travelers shaken.

 Extent of the Damage

According to a statement issued by the office of the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM):

• Multiple windows in Coach C-7 sustained heavy damage

• Window panes near seat numbers 41 and 42 were completely shattered

• Debris from the broken glass spread across the coach floor

• Several passengers moved to other coaches temporarily due to fear

The train, however, continued its journey without any unscheduled stop, and railway police were informed immediately.

 CCTV Footage Under Review

Authorities have confirmed that CCTV footage from the train and nearby locations is being thoroughly analyzed to identify the individuals involved. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and local police are jointly conducting the investigation.

Speaking to media, the DRM said:

“We are reviewing surveillance footage. Those responsible for the incident will face strict legal action. Such acts not only endanger lives but also damage national property.”

Repeat Incident: Stone Pelting in April 2025 Too

This is not the first time the Bhagalpur–Howrah Vande Bharat Express has been targeted. In April 2025, a similar stone-pelting incident occurred on the same route. After investigation, it was found that the perpetrators were juveniles, and action was taken against their guardians.

That previous event led to enhanced surveillance and awareness campaigns in nearby villages, yet this latest incident suggests that risk remains high.

 Legal Action and Security Measures

Railway officials have stated that strict action will be taken under:

• Indian Railway Act Section 153 (endangering safety of passengers)

• IPC Sections 427 & 336 (mischief and endangering life)

The RPF is expected to lodge a formal FIR against unknown individuals, which will be updated once suspects are identified from CCTV.

Additionally, local station masters and village leaders are being consulted to spread awareness about the consequences of such behavior.

 Passenger Accounts: Fear and Frustration

Several passengers shared their experience:

“We suddenly heard loud crashing noises. Glass shards flew across the coach. People started screaming and ducking. It was terrifying,” said Rajesh Kumar, a businessman traveling from Bhagalpur.

Another traveler added:

“This is the second time I’ve heard of such an incident on this route. Authorities must do more to secure the Vande Bharat trains.”

Vande Bharat Express: Symbol of Modern India Under Threat?

The Vande Bharat Express, India’s semi-high-speed premium train service, has become a symbol of modern infrastructure and national pride. However, repeated acts of stone pelting and vandalism are threatening its image, functionality, and safety.

Experts have urged for:

• Installation of security fences along vulnerable routes

• Deployment of RPF personnel on high-risk stretches

• Community outreach programs to educate locals on rail safety

• Speed monitoring and AI-based alert systems

 Damage to Government Property: Financial Implications

Beyond safety concerns, such acts result in financial losses to Indian Railways. Each window replacement in a Vande Bharat coach costs several thousands of rupees, not to mention downtime, service delays, and public backlash.

Railway authorities estimate that repair and delay costs per incident range from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on damage severity.

 Indian Railways on Alert: Strategy Going Forward

To prevent further occurrences, the Eastern Railway Zone is now:

• Mapping “high-risk zones” for recurring incidents

• Deploying mobile RPF units to monitor stretches during Vande Bharat timings

• Implementing a zero-tolerance policy toward railway sabotage

Additionally, awareness posters, radio jingles, and school-level campaigns will be reintroduced in rural and semi-urban areas along the route.

The latest stone pelting incident on the Vande Bharat Express reflects a serious lapse in public behavior and railway security. While no passengers were injured, the psychological impact and repeated nature of such events cannot be ignored.

Authorities must act with urgency and consistency—both in prosecution and in public education—to protect India’s flagship train services and the lives they carry.