The Gorakhpur-Patliputra Vande Bharat Express faced two separate stone-pelting incidents on March 20 and 21, 2026, in Bihar. These attacks took place on the Muzaffarpur-Motihari rail section, causing damage to the train windows. Although there were no serious injuries, the incidents created an atmosphere of fear among the passengers. Railway authorities started an investigation to catch those responsible for these acts and have increased security measures in the area.
What happened during the two days of attacks?
On the evening of Thursday, March 20, 2026, train number 22531 was targeted between Kaparpura and Kanti stations. A large stone shattered the window of coach C-5 near seat number 31. The following day, March 21, another stone-pelting incident occurred near Mehsi station, damaging the window of coach C-2. These repeated attacks caused panic, and in one instance, a woman and her child had to take cover under their seat to avoid flying glass shards.
What action are the authorities taking now?
- FIR Registration: The Railway Protection Force (RPF) registered FIRs against unknown individuals for the stone-pelting incidents.
- Investigation: RPF Inspector Bharat Prasad confirmed that CCTV footage is being reviewed and raids are being conducted to identify the culprits.
- Strict Warnings: Officials warned that parents of any minors involved will also face legal consequences.
- Negligence Case: A separate FIR was filed against a private agency named Jaishree Guru and its manager for leaving cemented sleepers on the track near Motipur, which the train hit on Friday.
The recurring nature of these incidents on the Muzaffarpur-Motihari section raised significant concerns regarding the safety of passengers traveling on premium trains. The RPF continues to monitor the tracks to prevent further damage to railway property and ensure traveler security.
