Maoists Blow Up Railway Tracks in Jharkhand, 13 Trains Cancelled

Jharkhand: Commuters on the crucial Howrah-Mumbai route faced disruption Friday after suspected members of the outlawed CPI (Maoist) targeted railway tracks in West Singhbhum district late Thursday night. The explosion damaged a portion of the third line between Mahadevsal and Posoita stations, forcing the cancellation of 13 trains and the diversion of one.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. Authorities acted swiftly, with repair work beginning immediately and train operations resuming by 9 am Friday. Help desks were also set up at key stations to assist affected passengers.

Adding a layer of concern, the attack coincided with the ‘protest week’ declared by the CPI (Maoist) from December 16, culminating in a nationwide ‘bharat bandh’ on Friday. This incident highlights the ongoing challenge posed by extremist activities and their potential to disrupt public services.

The blast impacted several trains, including the Samarsata Express (diverted) and the Tata-Itwari Express (canceled) along with nine other passenger trains.