Mahabubabad: Hundreds of passengers travelling on the Charlapalli-bound Visakhapatnam–Charlapalli Express (Train No. 18527) were startled after the train came to an abrupt halt in the early hours of Saturday. The alertness of the loco pilot helped avert a potential accident.The incident occurred between Kesamudram and Intikanne railway stations at Level Crossing (LC) No. 75. According to railway sources, the train had earlier crossed Mahabubabad station and was proceeding towards Intikanne station after receiving the appropriate signal clearance.However, gateman Sharath allegedly reopened the gate and displayed a red signal, reportedly due to drowsiness, despite the line having already been cleared. On noticing the red signal, the loco pilot immediately applied the brakes before the train reached the Intikanne station signal, preventing a possible mishap.Passengers, who were awakened by the sudden braking at around 5 am, were left confused. Some reportedly contacted South Central Railway (SCR) officials to seek an explanation.Treating the incident as a serious safety lapse, the senior divisional railway manager of South Central Railway ordered an inquiry by a three-member committee. Traffic inspector Mohan Kumar, signal inspector Ramky and chief loco inspector Bhaskar visited Intikanne station to investigate the incident and recorded the statement of gateman Sharath.The inquiry committee has submitted a detailed report to the SCR general manager, who is expected to decide on further action in accordance with railway rules and govt guidelines. Meanwhile, reports circulating about the immediate suspension of the gateman have not been officially confirmed.
