UDUPI: A possible
train tragedy in
Karnataka's Udupi was averted, thanks to the determination of a daily wage worker, who ran 3 km, despite a weak leg, so he could keep the railway officials informed about the
crack developed on a track
.
Krishna Poojary, 53, a resident of Korangrapady here, works at a fast food stall for a living. He was diagnosed with an ailment in his leg because of which he lost strength in right leg. His doctor advised him to go on a daily walk, as treatment did not help much and he could not seek further medical help due to his financial condition.
Acting on the advice, Krishna had been going on a stroll early in the mornings. He had chosen the Brahmasthana Nagabana area at Korangrapady to walk a few steps. On Saturday, as he had completed a few steps, he stumbled upon the crack. Before he could think about his next course of action, a train already chugged on the track, further widening the crack. Krishna decided to bring the issue to the notice of the railway officials as there was little time for the next train to arrive. Risking his health condition and despite the excruciating pain, Krishna ran around for 3 km and reached out to the officials.
“I usually walk for around 2 km. When I was taking a stroll around 6.45am, I happened to see the crack. Soon a train passed by and the cracked widened. I could only think of rushing to the officials,” Krishna told TOI.
Based on the information provided by Krishna, the railway officials ordered to halt two trains, one at Indrali railway station, located around 7 km away and another at Padubidri railway station, around 16 km away. In the next 40 minutes, engineers from the department, accompanied by Krishna, arrived at the spot and undertook some quick fixes only after which the trains were let go.
“I have severe leg pain. But I am glad I could be of some help to the public,” Krishna said.
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