Heroic Rescue at Cuttack Railway Station, Constable Saves Passenger from Near-Fatal Fall

Cuttack, June 5, 2025 – A heart-stopping moment at Cuttack Railway Station turned into a story of heroism when Government Railway Police (GRP) Constable Tulu Behera saved a passenger from a potentially fatal accident. The swift action of the constable prevented a tragedy, earning him widespread praise and recognition from senior officials.

The Incident: A Close Call on the Platform

At approximately 8:05 a.m. on Thursday, Mohammad Mujahir, a 44-year-old resident of Mirjapur, Uttar Dinajpur, West Bengal, attempted to board the Kanyakumari–Dibrugarh Express (Train No. 22503) bound for Kishanganj. As the train began to move, Mujahir misjudged his step, slipped on the train’s footboard, and fell perilously close to the gap between the platform and the moving train’s wheels. The situation was critical, with the passenger at risk of being dragged under the train.

Constable Tulu Behera, stationed at the platform as part of his routine patrol, noticed the unfolding danger. With split-second reflexes, he sprinted toward Mujahir, grabbed his hands, and pulled him to safety just moments before disaster. The passenger escaped with only minor injuries and was promptly provided medical assistance at the station.

A video of the incident, shared by PTI, captured the dramatic rescue, showcasing Behera’s quick thinking and bravery. The clip shows the passenger’s desperate struggle to hold onto the train before Behera’s timely intervention.

Background: A Growing Concern at Railway Stations

The incident highlights the dangers associated with boarding moving trains, a recurring issue at busy railway stations across India. Cuttack Railway Station, a major hub in Odisha, sees thousands of passengers daily, and such mishaps are not uncommon. According to railway safety reports, over 1,200 accidents related to boarding and alighting trains were recorded across India in 2024, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and safety measures.

Constable Behera’s actions serve as a reminder of the critical role played by railway police in ensuring passenger safety. The Government Railway Police (GRP) and Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel are trained to handle emergencies, but such acts of bravery under pressure are exceptional.

Recognition for Bravery

The Odisha Police and railway authorities were quick to laud Constable Behera’s heroism. Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania announced a cash reward of ₹2,500 for Behera, commending his exemplary service and dedication to public safety. Additional Director General (ADG) of Coastal Security and Railways, Arun Bothra, personally spoke with Behera, praising his presence of mind and courage.

This is not the first time Behera has demonstrated such valor. Six months prior, he performed a similar rescue at Cuttack Railway Station, saving another passenger in distress. Speaking to local media, Behera expressed his commitment to serving the public, stating, “It’s my duty to protect passengers, and I’m grateful to have made a difference.”

A Broader Perspective: Similar Incidents Nationwide

The Cuttack incident is not an isolated case. Just weeks ago, a Railway Protection Force (RPF) constable in Mumbai saved a passenger who slipped while attempting to board a moving local train. These incidents underscore the importance of adhering to railway safety guidelines, such as waiting for trains to come to a complete stop before boarding or alighting.

Railway authorities have repeatedly urged passengers to avoid rushing onto moving trains, as the narrow gap between platforms and train carriages poses a significant risk. Awareness campaigns and increased patrolling by GRP and RPF personnel aim to reduce such accidents, but individual vigilance remains crucial.

Impact and Takeaways

Constable Tulu Behera’s heroic act has resonated widely, earning him admiration from passengers, colleagues, and the public. His quick response not only saved a life but also highlighted the selfless dedication of railway police personnel who work tirelessly to ensure passenger safety.

For passengers, this incident serves as a stark reminder to prioritize safety over haste. Indian Railways has reiterated its commitment to enhancing platform safety through measures like improved signage, public announcements, and stricter enforcement of boarding protocols.

As Mohammad Mujahir recovers from his minor injuries, the story of his rescue stands as a testament to the courage and readiness of officers like Constable Behera, whose actions make a profound difference in moments of crisis.