A powerful explosion rocked the main Delhi–Amritsar railway line near Sirhind in Punjab’s Fatehgarh Sahib district during the early hours of Friday, causing significant damage to the track and leading to the derailment of a goods train engine. The blast, which occurred around 1 am near Kanpur village close to railway pole number 1208, damaged nearly a 600-metre stretch of the railway line and triggered an immediate security response.
According to preliminary assessments, high-grade explosives are suspected to have been used, with officials not ruling out the possibility of RDX. At the time of the explosion, no passenger train was passing through the affected section, which helped avert a major tragedy. However, when a goods train later approached the damaged portion of the track, its engine derailed due to the impact of the blast.
A security officer identified as Anil Sharma, who was on duty aboard the goods train, sustained injuries in the incident. He was promptly shifted for medical treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. Railway and security officials reached the site soon after the incident and secured the area.
Residents of nearby villages reported hearing a loud explosion that shook the surroundings and caused panic among locals. A large contingent of Punjab Police, railway officials, and security agencies rushed to the spot. Bomb disposal and forensic teams were also deployed to examine the site and collect evidence.
Railway authorities initiated emergency repair work immediately after the incident. The damaged track was repaired, safety inspections were carried out, and rail traffic on the route was restored within hours under strict monitoring to ensure passenger safety.
Punjab Police have registered a case against unidentified persons and launched an in-depth investigation into the incident. Multiple angles, including sabotage and possible terror links, are being explored. Security agencies are examining CCTV footage and technical evidence from the blast site to identify those responsible.
Following the explosion, security has been heightened along sensitive railway routes across Punjab. Authorities have increased surveillance at railway stations and vulnerable track sections and urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity near railway infrastructure.