In a shocking breach of railway safety protocols, a ‘minor’ was reportedly spotted inside the generator car of Train No 22221 Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)–NZM Rajdhani Express, meant to be handled exclusively by the onboard train staff.
The incident has sparked outrage among railway users and raised serious questions about operational discipline on one of the Indian railways’ premier trains.
The incident came to light after a video surfaced on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), posted by user @AdityaK73463045, showing the boy leaning out of the cabin as the train departed. The video quickly drew widespread concern, prompting the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Mumbai Division to take note and promise immediate action.
A minor was seen inside the generator car of Train No. 22221 CSMT–NZM Rajdhani Express, performing the signalling duties that are meant to be done by the Train Manager. This is extremely concerning Regarding safety & operational Concers for VIP trains Like Rajdhani pic.twitter.com/eSNZq9T5X8
— Adv Aditya Kumbhar (@AdityaK73463045) October 26, 2025
Railway officials confirmed that preliminary checks are underway to identify how the child gained unauthorised access to the restricted generator car — a high-security area adjacent to the power coach that houses sensitive electrical equipment.
Experts say the incident highlights persistent challenges in enforcing access control, even on VIP-category trains such as the Rajdhani, which are expected to maintain the highest safety and operational standards.
“Allowing an untrained person — especially a minor into this coach is not just negligence; it’s a systemic failure,” said a retired railway safety officer, requesting anonymity of name.
Indian Railways regulations strictly prohibit unauthorised persons from entering locomotives, brake vans, or generator cars. Under the Railways Act, 1989, such acts can attract penal action under Sections 147 and 150, pertaining to unauthorised entry and endangering safety of operations.
As the video continues to circulate online, railway insiders expect disciplinary action against the on-board staff and a safety circular reminding crews about their responsibilities during operations of high-profile trains.
A spokesperson said it was not the train manager’s cabin, but the generator car.
Divisional Railway Manager Harish Mina told mid-day.com that he will investigate the incident.
