Sudhir Prajapati, an Assistant Pointsman at the New Mulund Goods Shed (NGSM) of Mumbai division bravely stepped-up to prevent a major theft at the yard and caught the thief red-handed on Monday, officials said.
According to the Central Railway, Train number 11016 Amrit Bharat Express, after being short-terminated at Thane station in Maharashtra, was moved to NGSM Yard for stabling. It was placed on RD Line No. 2 as an empty rake at 5:05 pm. While on duty, Prajapati went towards the Mumbai-end of the train to secure it with wooden wedges and safety chains. As he climbed into SLR Coach No. CR-256034 to apply the hand brake, he spotted a person behaving suspiciously inside the coach.
“When he confronted the intruder, the person pushed him and tried to escape towards the Kalyan end of the train. Acting quickly, Prajapati alerted his colleague, Sunil Patil, Train Clerk, and together they chased and caught the thief,” an official said.
The stolen item was recovered and handed over to the Deputy Chief Yard Master, NGSM Yard, for safe custody. The offender was later handed over to the on-duty RPF personnel for further legal action, the Central Railway stated.
Prajapati, who joined the Railways just 21 months ago, showed courage and dedication beyond his duty. His alert action not only prevented the loss of railway property but also set an inspiring example for his colleagues.
Central Railway has praised his honesty, vigilance, and commitment to public service, an official said.
