Train services were briefly disrupted in Kerala’s Kannur district early on Thursday after a reckless attempt to film a social media reel led to a red signal being deliberately displayed on railway tracks, forcing a running passenger train to stop.
The incident occurred in the early hours of December 25 between Thalassery and Mahe, when the Ernakulam–Pune Okha Express was brought to a halt after an unauthorised red light appeared ahead on the line.
Unauthorised signal triggers emergency stop
According to the police, the red signal was not part of official railway operations and was deliberately used to stop the train so that a video could be recorded for social media. The train driver followed standard safety protocol and immediately applied brakes, preventing what authorities say could have escalated into a major accident.
After railway officials assessed the situation and confirmed there was no further danger, the train was allowed to resume its journey, resulting in only a brief delay.
Students booked, one accused absconding
The Railway Police in Kannur registered a case against two Plus Two students in connection with the incident. The two youths were taken into custody and later released on bail.
A third individual, who was reportedly present at the scene during the act, managed to flee. Police have launched a search operation to trace him and are also investigating whether others were involved in planning or executing the stunt.
Trespass exploited low visibility
Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused trespassed into the railway track area during early morning hours, taking advantage of low visibility and reduced supervision. Investigators said the red signal was displayed in a manner that compelled the train to stop, exploiting the safety-first approach mandated for train drivers.
Railways warn of grave danger
Railway authorities have termed the act “extremely dangerous”, stressing that unauthorised interference with train operations poses a direct threat to passenger safety. Senior officials warned that even a momentary misjudgement could lead to derailments or collisions, particularly on busy railway corridors.
The case has been registered under relevant provisions of the Railways Act and sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to endangering public safety and obstructing public transport.
Growing concern over risky online stunts
The incident has reignited concerns over a growing trend of youths attempting hazardous stunts for online visibility. Police and railway officials have called for stronger enforcement and awareness campaigns to discourage risky behaviour around critical public infrastructure.
Authorities reiterated that strict action will be taken to ensure such incidents are not repeated.