In a dramatic turn of events, the much-awaited inauguration of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train in Malda has hit a security roadblock. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has issued an urgent alert, flagging a credible threat of stone-pelting by miscreants ahead of the ceremony. This development has cast a shadow over what was supposed to be a celebratory milestone for Indian Railways.
Scheduled to flag off from Malda Town station, the new sleeper variant of the popular Vande Bharat series boasts luxurious features tailored for long-distance comfort: ergonomic seats that convert into berths, bio-vacuum toilets, and onboard entertainment systems. Linking economic hubs across eastern India, it’s poised to cut travel times significantly. But security concerns have escalated, with RPF citing specific intelligence on planned attacks to derail the event.
Responding swiftly, security forces have ramped up measures including additional dog squads, anti-sabotage checks, and coordination with local police. Tracks are being scoured, and access to sensitive areas restricted. Eyewitnesses report heavy RPF presence, creating an air of anticipation mixed with caution.
This alert comes amid a spate of recent rail disruptions nationwide, raising questions about the vulnerabilities in high-profile launches. Railway officials remain optimistic, asserting that robust protocols will safeguard the event. As Malda braces for the unknown, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the threats facing modern rail travel in India, demanding stronger countermeasures for future endeavors.
