Sundargarh (Odisha)-In a fresh wave of violence during the Maoist Week, suspected Maoists blew up a section of the railway track between Rajnda and Karamapada in the Bandhamunda railway control area of Sundargarh district near the Odisha-Jharkhand border. The explosion caused major damage to the track, dislodging at least two sleepers. Posters attributed to the Maoists were found a kilometer away from the blast site, suggesting their involvement.
As a precaution, train movement on the crucial Mumbai-Howrah main line has been temporarily suspended. Local police forces have launched extensive search operations in the surrounding areas to ensure public safety.
Security forces including the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) have been deployed at three vulnerable stations—Bisra, Bhalulata, and Jarai Kela. These stations are not only Maoist-affected but also situated along the key Howrah-Mumbai corridor, prompting the railway authorities to keep them under strict surveillance.
To prevent further sabotage, freight trains are being operated ahead of passenger trains on sensitive routes to ensure track safety. Continuous inspections of railway tracks, electric poles, and station premises are underway. Authorities have placed both railway police and government forces on high alert.
Passengers have been urged to immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest station or via the railway helpline. The situation remains tense as security agencies work round the clock to restore normalcy and protect lives.
