In West Bengal, a potentially catastrophic train disaster was thwarted due to the rapid and wise action of a young 12-year-old. With the rain-eroded railway tracks posing imminent danger and the train proceeding at full throttle, a boy’s alertness made all the difference between a regular day and a possible tragedy.
A Boy, a Red Shirt, and an Approaching Train
The gravity of the situation was described by Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Sabyasachi Dey, who shared, “In Malda, the observant 12-year-old boy used his red shirt as a signal, attempting to halt the oncoming train.” His act was a desperate and brave bid to get the attention of the train’s loco-pilot.
Heeding the boy’s warning, the loco-pilot instantly activated the emergency brake system, preventing what could have been a tragic collision on the compromised track.
Mursleen Shaikh: The Young Sentinel
The boy, Mursleen Shaikh, wasn’t just a casual onlooker. As the son of a migrant worker, he was familiar with the surroundings, being present in the yard alongside other railway staff members. While most might have overlooked the hazard, Mursleen’s quick thinking spotlighted the imminent danger.
Efforts Recognized and Commended
Following the near-miss incident, railway officials promptly fixed the affected section of the track, restoring it for safe operations. The extraordinary act of valor by Mursleen did not go unnoticed. In a gesture of appreciation and recognition, the Divisional Railway Manager of Katihar, Shri Surendra Kumar, personally visited Mursleen’s home to congratulate and reward the young hero.
Rain: Nature’s Curveball for the Rails
Rain, while being a blessing for many, can sometimes spell danger, especially for infrastructure like railway tracks. On this fateful day, the persistent rains had weakened a stretch of the track, setting the stage for a potentially dangerous situation. The high-speed passenger train, approaching unaware of the damaged track ahead, could have met a grim fate if not for Mursleen’s timely intervention.
This incident is a testament to the potential heroes that reside within our communities. While age and experience are often associated with wisdom and action, Mursleen Shaikh’s quick thinking and courage serve as a poignant reminder that heroism knows no age. It’s the spirit and determination that truly make a difference.
