Trains on the Delhi-Howrah route faced delays on May 22, 2026, after a fire broke out along the railway tracks near Achalda. The Vande Bharat Express and Amrapali Express were halted for about 15 minutes as a safety precaution. Railway authorities are investigating the cause of the fire.
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What happened near Achalda and Baisholi
The fire near Achalda caused a temporary halt for premium trains like the Vande Bharat and Amrapali Express. On the same route, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) arrested a person at Baisholi for pulling the emergency chain in the Gomti Express. These incidents happened on the same stretch of the Delhi-Howrah line.
Railway investigation and security updates
The Ministry of Railways stated that recent fire incidents are the result of sabotage by antisocial elements. Evidence such as cloth soaked in petrol was found during probes conducted around May 20-21, 2026. Authorities believe these acts are meant to create fear and disrupt the railway system.
Rules and penalties for chain pulling
The railway is taking strict action against the misuse of the alarm chain. Between March and May 2026, over 20,000 people were arrested and fines exceeding one crore rupees were collected. Under Section 141 of the Railways Act, chain pulling can lead to one year in jail or a fine of 1,000 rupees.
| Incident Location | Impact/Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Achalda | Vande Bharat & Amrapali stopped (15 mins) | May 22, 2026 |
| Baisholi | Gomti Express chain puller arrested | May 22, 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why were the Vande Bharat and Amrapali Express stopped?
These trains were stopped for approximately 15 minutes on May 22, 2026, due to a fire reported along the railway tracks near Achalda on the Delhi-Howrah route.
What is the penalty for pulling the emergency chain?
Under Section 141 of the Railways Act, misuse of the alarm chain is a crime punishable by up to one year in prison, a fine of 1,000 rupees, or both.