Karwar: A major accident was averted on the Konkan Railway line between Kumta and Honnavar due to the presence of mind of a trackman. The incident took place around 4.50 am on Friday. Trackman Mahadev was on duty when he noticed incomplete welding of a track joint. At that time, the Thiruvananthapuram-Delhi Rajdhani Express was coming on the route. Sensing the danger, Mahadev approached Kumta station to stop the train.

However, the express had already left the station and was moving fast towards it. Mahadev tried to contact the loco pilot directly, but could not establish contact. He took a decision without wasting a moment.

Red flagging averted disaster 

He sprinted across the tracks and covered the half-kilometre distance in five minutes. He averted a potential disaster by raising a red flag just in the nick of time. After the welding work was completed, the Rajdhani Express resumed its journey safely towards Karwar. Mahadev's prompt actions, risking his life to ensure the safety of hundreds of passengers, were widely praised.

Mahadev was honored as a hero

Konkan Railway zone officials hailed Mahadev as a hero. The Konkan Railway CMD gave him a cash award for his bravery.