As nightfall descended, the passengers had been served supper by the pantry car crew, and the preparations for sleep were in progress. Several traveller’s had cocooned themselves in blankets, fostering a feeling of tranquillity. Unexpectedly, a resounding noise reverberated through the Northeast Express from Anand Vihar as it raced along the tracks, disturbing the passengers’ repose. The ensuing commotion was incited by the derailment of the train’s carriages, causing the AC coach to capsize near Raghunathpur station in the western loop.
This occurrence took place during the late hours of the night, with the nearby markets shuttered. However, news of the incident spread swiftly, showcasing the fortitude and benevolence of people as folks from villages located fifteen to twenty kilometres away hurried to the location, extending aid through various means.
A multitude of individuals rushed to help, with even those from the proximate Diara region arriving to proffer their help. This manifestation of solidarity and empathy encompassed villages such as Bharhkhari, Rahthua, Kaant, Kaithi, Dhothanpur, Babudera, and others, who dispatched a substantial contingent of volunteers to support the endeavours. The injured found hope glimmering in their eyes as succour arrived.
Of significance, Raghunathpur’s police station head, Ranjeet Kumar, along with the administrative team from the central office, promptly arrived on the scene. In the interim, local inhabitants were actively involved in the rescue of rural passengers who were grappling with the obscurity. Villagers even transported generators to illuminate the surroundings, assuring the safety of all. The communal exertions spanned a range of activities, from providing water and assisting children to facilitating the transportation of the wounded onto ambulances.
While many were dedicated to preserving lives, a select few endeavoured to exploit the situation. An occurrence involving the endeavour to purloin a passenger’s bag seized the attention of onlookers, with law enforcement admonishing the offender.
As the injured passengers were conveyed to the principal healthcare facilities in Raghunathpur and Buxar, and the Buxar station grew congested, railway operations were suspended. Well into the night, sirens blared as ambulances raced, despite the situation having been brought under control.”
