Man Caught on CCTV Throwing Fire-Starting Object at Kolkata Station; Probe Underway

Authorities in India are intensifying security measures and investigations following a series of concerning incidents at Kolkata's Howrah station, the nation's busiest railway hub. The recent discovery of a man deliberately throwing a suspicious object onto the tracks, which then ignited, has raised alarms. This event, captured on CCTV, has prompted a high-level security review by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. The probe has revealed a potential pattern involving anti-social elements in recent fire incidents across the railway network. Indian Railways is emphasizing the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and technological solutions to swiftly process information. Furthermore, passengers are being urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, underscoring a collaborative approach to security. The focus is not just on apprehending culprits but also on preventing future occurrences and ensuring the safety of millions of daily commuters.

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A fire was reported from the toilet of Mithila Express before it departed from Howrah station on May 19. When security agencies started probing into the incident and scanned through CCTV clippings, they spotted a man dumping a packet-like object near the cab road at Howrah station around 2:38 pm, which triggered a small fire.