Bengaluru, July 6: A bomb threat reported aboard the Howrah–SMVT Bengaluru Duronto Express triggered a major security operation at Bangarapet Railway Station in Karnataka on Sunday, causing a brief delay before the train was cleared to continue its journey. Railway authorities, local police, and bomb disposal squads responded immediately after receiving information about the suspected threat.
As a precautionary measure, the train was halted at Bangarapet station, where passengers were asked to remain calm while security personnel carried out comprehensive inspections of all coaches and luggage compartments. Sniffer dogs and bomb detection teams thoroughly searched the train to ensure the safety of passengers and railway staff.
After an extensive search that lasted several hours, officials confirmed that no explosives or suspicious objects were found. The alert was subsequently declared a hoax, and the Duronto Express was allowed to resume its journey toward Sir M. Visvesvaraya Terminal (SMVT), Bengaluru, with only a short delay.
Railway officials praised the swift coordination between the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), local police, and bomb disposal units, stating that established emergency protocols helped ensure passenger safety while minimizing disruption to train operations.
Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to trace the source of the false bomb threat. Authorities are examining electronic evidence and communication records to identify those responsible. Officials warned that issuing fake bomb threats is a serious criminal offence that can result in stringent legal action, as such incidents not only disrupt public transport but also divert critical emergency resources.
The incident highlights the importance of maintaining high security standards across India’s railway network. Officials have urged passengers to promptly report any suspicious activities or unattended baggage and to cooperate with security personnel during emergency inspections. While the threat proved to be unfounded, railway authorities reaffirmed that every alert is treated with the utmost seriousness to ensure the safety and security of millions of passengers travelling on the country’s rail network.
news as reported
