A Goa-Delhi train left a station in Nashik, Maharashtra, more than an hour ahead of schedule on Thursday, leaving behind around 70 passengers and railway staff, according to sources.
The Madgaon-Hazrat Nizamuddin Vasco Da Gama Express was scheduled to depart Manmad Junction (in Nashik) at 10.35am but left at 9.20am, catching dozens of passengers and staff off guard, the sources said.
Among the passengers was Lalan Mishra from Delhi, who was traveling with his wife to seek blessings at Sai Shirdi. Mishra was set to board the train from Kopar but had to change plans when the train was rerouted via Kalyan, potentially causing it to reach Manmad ahead of schedule.
Passengers caught off guard
"We received an SMS from railway authorities that the train was diverted via Kalyan due to some technical reasons. Hence, we decided to reach Manmad as per schedule given by the railway," said Mishra. His wife boarded the train and Mishra went to buy food items since the train had an hour’s time to leave Manmad station. However, after returning to the platform at around 9:40 am, he noticed that train had departed.
Mishra and around 70 passengers, along with a few checking staff members, were left behind due to the early departure of the train. Many of them had presumed they had ample time for breakfast before boarding the train at the scheduled time.
Stranded passenger Lalan Mishra | FPJ
Central Railway acknowledges mistake
The Central Railway administration have acknowledged the error and swung into action to rectify the situation. At the next station, Jalgaon, they regulated the Vasco Da Gama Express, ensuring it waited for the passengers and the ticket checking staff left behind traveling by the Gitanjali Express, train number 12859.
Upon realising the mistake, the station master immediately contacted the relevant authorities. The Gitanjali Express, next train of the route was granted an emergency halt to facilitate the transfer the Vasco Da Gama Express passengers left behind. They were swiftly transported to Jalgaon via the Gitanjali Express and then allowed to re-board their intended train, which was halted for them.
The stranded passengers expressed their gratitude to the Railways for their prompt action and ensuring they reach their destinations on time.
"Despite the unusual situation, the Central Railway's decisive response and co-ordinated efforts enabled a positive outcome for all affected passengers, exemplifying their commitment to passenger welfare and efficient operations," Mishra noted.
Inquiry launched
A senior railway official said that a comprehensive inquiry had been initiated to identify the responsible parties. He assured that strict action would be taken against those found accountable for the oversight.
