Creepiest Experiences of Indian Train Drivers: Navigating Night-Time Hazards and Shadows
The job of Indian train drivers, particularly those who operate on night-time routes, is nothing short of eerie. The risks they face are palpable, often requiring immense courage and fortitude. Despite their exceptional skills and unwavering focus, tragic incidents occasionally happen, highlighting the perils they face on a daily basis. Let us delve into a chilling yet true incident that brings to light the harrowing experiences of these brave chiefs of the rails.
Chilling Realities of Indian Train Operations
As a loco pilot, the job is marred by numerous hazards, including the gruesome occurrences of man-run-over incidents and the lethal impact of cattle on the railway tracks. Trains are not just modes of transportation but instruments of death, inflicting harm in the most brutal ways possible. The weight of these incidents is carried with compassion and resilience by the train operators, who warrant immense respect for their bravery.
A Nightmarish Incident in CIC Section
Consider a specific incident that took place in the CIC (Coal India Corporation) section of Dhanbad division. This region is densely populated with both passenger and goods trains, with the latter almost every 10-15 minutes. What sets this section apart is the prevalence of naxalism, a significant source of unrest. Naxals, known for their militant activities, often use trains as a means to transport their materials and movements. In these encounters, the drivers and their assistants often find themselves at the mercy of armed individuals, leaving them with no choice but to comply with their demands out of sheer fear.
On one fateful night, a group of heavily armed naxals stopped a goods train, demanding the loco pilot hand over the platinum of the pantograph. The pantograph, a key component of the train's electrical system, is a V-shaped structure atop the locomotive, connecting it to the overhead electrical wires carrying high voltage electricity. The naxals insisted the loco pilot climb the roof of the locomotive and test the pantograph for platinum. The loco pilot and his assistant repeatedly denied that the pantograph contained platinum, but the naxals were insistent, and ultimately forced the crew to call the divisional control to switch off the overhead wires.
Unpredictable and Chaotic
Control room, already in a state of chaos, attempted to intervene through the crew's communication devices but finally had to comply with the naxals' demands. The assistant loco pilot then climbed the roof to show the naxals that the pantograph strips were made of carbon and not platinum. The naxals were initially doubtful but eventually relinquished their demand after physically verifying with their own eyes.
As expected, the incident had severe repercussions. The train's operations were halted for nearly four hours, causing significant disruption and a sense of outrage among the staff unions. They threatened to stop work, emphasizing the precarious and dangerous conditions under which these drivers operate.
Conclusion
The experiences of Indian train drivers, particularly those navigating the night-time terrain, are filled with unpredictability and fear. These bravehearts must continuously confront hazardous situations, requiring them to stay calm under pressure and make life-and-death decisions. Their resilience in the face of such challenges is a testament to their dedication and valor. Understanding and appreciating these experiences can lead to better support and safer working conditions for all involved in railway operations.