New Delhi: A major scare unfolded in Punjab on Sunday as the Patna-Jammu Tawi Archana Express (Train 12355) traveled for nearly 3 kilometers without its engine! Thankfully, a vigilant railway keyman in Khanna spotted the driverless coaches and raised the alarm, preventing a potential disaster.Heroic keyman averts tragedyThe incident occurred on Sunday morning when the engine somehow became detached from the carriages near Khanna. The train continued to roll for several kilometers before the alert keyman noticed the unattached coaches. His swift action in raising the alarm immediately halted the runaway engine and allowed railway workers to reattach it to the train.Narrow Escape: Archana Express Engine Detaches Mid-Journey pic.twitter.com/1NP5Q37nlT— WarpaintJournal.in (@WarpaintJ) May 5, 2024Passengers shaken, inquiry launchedWhile thankfully no injuries were reported, the incident left hundreds of passengers shaken. The close call has also sparked serious concerns about railway safety protocols and staff awareness. An investigation is underway by the Indian Railways to determine the cause of the engine detachment.Train no 12355 Archana expressAkele engine jammu tawi pahunchte huye pic.twitter.com/g2LGmEFDPa— Chandan Kumar Gupta (@ChandanKum90428) May 5, 2024Deja vu in PunjabThis alarming incident is eerily similar to another that occurred in Punjab earlier this year. In February, a goods train careered driverless for a staggering 84 kilometers in the Mukerian district. The cause The drivers reportedly took a break and neglected to apply the handbrake at the Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir.Safety concerns mountThese close calls raise critical questions about railway safety measures in India. The Indian Railways must prioritize a thorough investigation into both incidents and implement stricter protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Passenger safety should always be the topmost priority.
