Explosion Under Train in Comilla, Passengers Narrowly Escape

In Brahmanpara upazila of Comilla, a bag of Indian fireworks discarded by smugglers fell under a train and exploded. Hundreds of passengers narrowly avoided a major accident.

The incident occurred on Monday (10 November) evening near the Reyachhat Ali Fakir Mazar railway line in the Pitambar area of Burichang upazila.

According to local sources, a group of smugglers transport various illegal Indian goods daily through Chattala Express and Nasirabad trains via Saldandi and Shashidal railway stations. That evening, upon learning of a magistrate-led operation at Sadar Rasulpur station, the smugglers hurriedly threw the bags off the train. A bag containing fireworks fell under the wheels of the passing Godhuli Express, causing a loud explosion.

The train shook violently during the explosion, and passengers screamed in panic. However, since the train was moving, the fire did not spread, preventing a major accident.

Witnesses reported that after the incident, locals were seen collecting the discarded Indian goods from the railway tracks. Later, a local syndicate quickly removed the items.

Students Mahfuz, Siam, and Amit said the smugglers threw the bags before the train stopped upon hearing news of the magistrate’s operation. The fireworks exploded under the train wheels, causing panic among passengers.

Locals alleged that every evening, before the train arrives, these illegal goods are kept in the station’s bathroom and office rooms and then loaded onto the train when possible.

An unnamed regular passenger claimed that, hidden among the smuggled goods, drugs such as yaba, ganja, crystal meth (ice), cosmetics, fireworks, and other items are transported. He alleged that some train officials and the station master may be involved in this operation.

According to locals, several active smuggling syndicates operate in the area. Among them, Rezaul Karim of Shashidal has controlled various railway sectors for 30 years, smuggling Indian illegal goods including drugs across the country. He reportedly uses some corrupt police, railway security personnel, and BGB members to run this illegal business. Despite occasional government crackdowns, the activity resumes.

Sadar Rasulpur Station Master Prasenjit Chakraborty said that the explosion occurred during a magistrate-led operation on the Chattala Express on Monday evening. However, no significant damage occurred.

Khaborwala/TSN