Bengaluru: A bomb threat aboard the Howrah-SMVT Bengaluru Duronto Express triggered a high-alert security operation at Bangarapet railway station on Sunday afternoon before officials confirmed the alert was a hoax and allowed the train to continue its journey.
The train was briefly halted as personnel from multiple security agencies conducted an extensive search following a complaint made through the railway helpline.
Passenger reports bomb threat
According to railway officials, a passenger identified as Prasad Yadav, travelling in AC coach B6, alerted authorities after claiming that a fellow passenger had spoken about planting a bomb on the train and blowing it up.
Yadav also shared a photograph of the suspected individual with officials. He later deboarded the train at Renigunta railway station and urged authorities to carry out a thorough inspection.
Massive security search launched
After the train reached Bangarapet railway station at around 2.15 pm, teams from the Railway Protection Force (RPF), Government Railway Police (GRP), local police and the Kolar Gold Fields district Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad launched a comprehensive search operation.
Security personnel focused on coach B6 and identified the person mentioned in the complaint as Sushanta Dolai, a bedroll-change attendant working on the train.
Dispute led to false alarm
During questioning, investigators found that the bomb scare stemmed from an argument between the passenger and the attendant over changing bedrolls.
Police also verified Dolai’s background through the Interoperable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) and found no criminal cases against him. However, he was taken into custody by the railway police for further questioning as part of the investigation.
After completing the inspection, security teams confirmed that no explosives or suspicious materials were found on board.
The Duronto Express departed Bangarapet at around 2.30 pm and resumed its journey towards Bengaluru. Railway officials have appealed to passengers to avoid spreading false information, warning that hoax threats can disrupt services and divert critical security resources.