A chilling video of a minor boy performing a life-threatening stunt on railway tracks in Odisha’s Boudh district has triggered swift action from the Railway Protection Force (RPF). The footage, filmed on June 29 near Talupali close to Purunapani station, shows a 12-year-old lying between the rails as a train passes over him — while his 15-year-old friend records the act on video. A third boy stood nearby, but was not directly involved.
Thankfully, no one was hurt, but officials have warned that the stunt could have ended in tragedy. The RPF has booked two minors in connection with the incident and is likely to produce them before the Juvenile Justice Board. The children’s families have been counseled, and the RPF has launched a railway safety awareness drive in the region.
“This was a reckless act that could have cost a life,” said an RPF inspector, adding that the local population appeared unaware of the severe risks and legal consequences of such stunts. The inspector emphasized the importance of educating both children and adults about railway safety norms.
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has also issued a strong appeal to the public, urging people — especially the youth — not to attempt or encourage dangerous acts on railway premises. The incident occurred just days after Boudh district received long-awaited train connectivity, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 20.