Gateman Yashpal Singh's Quick Action Prevents Major Tragedy

Gateman Yashpal Singh, a retired army officer, detected smoke coming out from the 4th coach of the Patalkot Express and alerted his higher-ups. This quick action prevented a major tragedy.

A major tragedy was averted on Wednesday afternoon when a fire broke out in two coaches of the Patalkot Express near Bhandai station in Agra. Thanks to the alertness of gateman Yashpal Singh, who spotted the smoke and immediately alerted his superiors, all the passengers were evacuated safely.

Quick action by gateman and railway staff

When the train was passing through the gate at 3.35 pm before reaching Bhandai station, Singh detected smoke coming out from the 4th coach from the engine. No one inside the train was aware of it. Yashpal immediately called Haridas, the deputy station superintendent of Bhandai station, who further informed the control room.

The train controller immediately directed the OHE Over Head Equipment in charge to shut down the power supply of all trains in UP and DOWN directions to stop them at their respective locations. Senior officials have also acknowledged the commendable work of Singh, who is posted at Bhandai station since 2021.

Fire extinguished, passengers safe

By the time the Patalkot Express stopped at 3.37 pm, it had already crossed the Bhandai station. Within 10 minutes, fire brigade, ambulance, and SPART Self Propelled Accident Relief Train were asked to reach the site. In the meantime, the fire had already engulfed the two coaches -- 3rd and 4th from the engine. However, all the passengers were evacuated in time.

According to the Railway Protection Force, the fire was completely extinguished by 5.10 pm, and a total of 11 people received minor burn injuries. The injured passengers were rushed to nearby hospitals and are undergoing treatment.

Cause of fire not yet known

The cause of the fire is not yet known. A forensic team has been called to investigate the incident. Train operations on the Agra-Dholpur route were impacted as many trains have been stopped at various stations.

The train left for its destination at 7.30 pm after accommodating the passengers of the affected coaches in other coaches.

The averted tragedy is a reminder of the importance of alertness and quick action in preventing disasters. The railway authorities must commend and reward gateman Yashpal Singh for his outstanding service.