Hubli
The SSS Hubli railway station’s 1,508-meter platform, the longest in the world, has turned into a gauntlet as passengers rush from the first, i.e., main entry to catch their trains. Although PF No. 1 has space, officials avoid scheduling arrivals/departures there, leading to a surge in buggy services.
Charging Rs 20 per head, these buggies have become a disruption, sounding horns and blocking paths. However, Monday’s accident, where a buggy overturned, injuring two passengers, further highlighted the issue. The irony is that the buggy driver did not have a driving licence, violating the Railway’s own contract.
Harsh Khare, Divisional Railway Manager told that a new Battery-Operated Cart (BOC) met with an accident near the old VIP Siding, injuring two passengers on board.
This incident occurred while going from Platform 1 to 6 for the boarding of train number 17303 Hubli-Sindhanur Express. BOC driver Mohammed Rauf was taken into custody by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and a case was registered under sections 147, 153, and 159 of the Indian Railway Act-1989. Upon preliminary investigation, it was ascertained that Rauf was not holding an LMV licence vide Clause 11(a) of the special conditions of the contract. He was also not holding the ID card. The detailed investigation into the said incident is in progress and legal action will be taken against the licensee. The injured are being treated at SWR Central Hospital, he said.
When asked about the buggies’ nuisance on platforms, he said they stand near the main entrance so that passengers can identify them easily.
