In a harrowing incident that transpired on a Tuesday morning, the Sinhagad Express (Train No. 11010), a popular route from Pune to Mumbai, left two passengers seriously injured after unexpectedly bypassing its scheduled stop, sending shockwaves through the commuting community.
Sinhagad Express: A Vital Pune-Mumbai Connection
The Sinhagad Express is an integral part of the daily routine for many travelers journeying between Pune and Mumbai. Departing from Pune Railway Station at 6.05 a.m., it usually reaches Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in Mumbai by 9.55 a.m. Along its route, the train makes vital halts at stations like Shivajinagar, Khadki, Pimpri, Chinchwad, Lonavala, Karjat, Kalyan, and Dadar, catering to the needs of countless daily commuters.
The Shocking Incident
This disconcerting incident occurred as the train approached the Pimpri and Chinchwad stations. Instead of following its customary schedule and making a halt, the train unexpectedly stopped a short distance away from the platform. This unexpected change left passengers bewildered and in a hurry to catch their daily coaches. As they rushed to board, pandemonium broke out, leading to chaos and, most distressingly, injuries.
The market in Pimpri typically remains closed on Tuesdays, causing a surge in traders and shoppers traveling to Mumbai on the Sinhagad Express. This increased passenger rush further complicated the situation, adding to the commotion.
At Pimpri railway station, the train arrived at 6.30 a.m., with some daring passengers attempting to board the moving train. However, the train’s unexpected halt thwarted their efforts, causing distress. As the train continued on its journey without stopping at the usual location, passengers on the platform began running, resulting in several individuals becoming stranded. Tragically, two passengers suffered serious injuries during this commotion.
Injuries and Calls for Action
Sunil Memon, one of the injured passengers, found himself trapped between the train and the platform before falling onto the railway tracks. His injuries included damage to three toes, as well as injuries to his back and stomach. Following primary treatment at the municipal hospital, he was transferred to a private hospital in Bhosari for further medical attention.
Expressing his concerns, Sunil Memon explained the situation, highlighting the absence of immediate first aid facilities at the railway station.
Iqbal Mulani, President of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Railway Passengers Association, urged the railway administration to take the matter seriously and demanded action. He emphasized the need to reduce the train’s speed after it arrives at the platform to ensure the safety of passengers.
The incident on the Sinhagad Express serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance in the operation of India’s extensive railway network, with a particular focus on passenger well-being and timely halts.
