Tinsukia, April 24: Footage circulating in Assam’s Tinsukia division has raised fresh concerns over rail safety, showing groups of teenagers climbing onto and hanging from a moving passenger train to pluck mangoes from trees along the track.
The incidents were reportedly captured on Friday during the morning “up” Makum–Dangari service around 8:00 am and the return “down” service at about 10:00 am. Commuters indicated that such behaviour is not isolated, with some of the youths described as repeat offenders.
According to eyewitness accounts, the teenagers climb onto coach roofs or lean dangerously out of doors and windows while the train is in motion, attempting to grab fruit from low-hanging branches. Some are believed to be recording the acts for social media, treating the activity as a stunt.
Passengers have raised concerns over the apparent lack of on-board supervision. Several alleged that there was no visible presence of the Railway Protection Force or ticket-checking staff during the journeys, particularly during peak morning hours. The Makum–Dangari passenger service is considered an important short-distance route in the region, making the absence of monitoring a matter of concern.
Safety observers warned that the combination of train speed, low-hanging branches and reckless conduct could lead to serious accidents. They stressed the need for immediate intervention to prevent potential loss of life.
Residents and commuters have called on Indian Railways to step up enforcement, deploy security personnel and initiate awareness campaigns aimed at discouraging such high-risk behaviour. No official statement had been issued at the time of reporting, though sources indicated the matter may be escalated to higher authorities.
