A blast was triggered by suspected Maoists at Doikallu railway station in Rayagada district. They also abducted a couple of railway officials and snatched a few walkie-talkies used by the railway employees. However, no railway staff or local people were hurt.
“Around 15-20 Maoists arrived at Doikallu railway station in Rayagada district at around 12.15 am and first ransacked the station master’s office. They then pulled out station master SK Parida and triggered an explosion in the office. They also abducted Parida porter Gobind Hikaka for some time but later allowed them to go. However, they snatched away the walkie-talkie used by the Station Master,” said Chief Public Relations Officer of East Coast Railway zone, JP Mohapatra as per a report in Indian Express.
“While one group was in the station master’s office, another group went to the goods train standing outside the station. They forced the staff to shut down the engine,” Mohapatra added.
Mohapatra also informed that all train movements in that zone have been stopped. “Control room has been able to speak to them. District SP, Dy SP and other security officials have reached the station. Train movement will start only after ascertaining the security and safety aspects,” he said.
Reportedly, the Maoists were protesting on appointment of non-Odia senior police officers.
