Vaishno Devi-bound train splits into two near Ludhiana; 1,200 passengers escape unhurt
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), June 6, 2026: Nearly 1,200 passengers had a narrow escape on Saturday after a Vaishno Devi-bound special train partially separated near Ludhiana railway station following a mechanical failure, triggering panic among passengers.
The incident occurred shortly after the New Delhi–Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Special (04081) departed from Ludhiana station. According to reports, a loud noise resembling an explosion was heard when the toilet section of a sleeper coach was damaged and the coach became detached from the adjoining compartment.
The sudden jolt and loud sound sparked panic among passengers, many of whom rushed out of their coaches fearing a major accident. Railway officials and local authorities quickly reached the spot and initiated an inspection.
Fortunately, the train had only just left Ludhiana station when the incident occurred. Officials said the consequences could have been far more serious had the mechanical failure occurred while the train was travelling at high speed.
After a preliminary inquiry, Ludhiana ADCP Sameer Verma clarified that there was no explosion. He said the coupler connecting two coaches had broken, causing the train to separate into two sections. The incident was the result of a technical malfunction and not a blast, he added.
The train, which departed from New Delhi in the early hours of Saturday for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, had reached Ludhiana at around 8:47 a.m. Railway authorities launched a technical examination of the affected coaches and restored normal operations after necessary repairs.
No injuries were reported in the incident, and all passengers were reported safe. Railway officials have ordered a detailed investigation into the mechanical failure.