Alert motorman saves drunk man from being run over

 

By Sagaya Fernando| August 20, 2025

Thane, Maharashtra, INDIA: A major tragedy was averted in the early hours of Independence Day August 15 when a vigilant Central Railway motorman stopped his train just in time to save a man lying on the tracks on the Parsik Chord Line between Digha and Kalwa in Thane district.

The incident occurred around 4:30 am during the movement of an empty rake from Sanpada Carshed in Navi Mumbai to Diva. 

Motorman S K Khairnar, while negotiating a curve, noticed an obstruction on the track and realised it was a man lying dangerously close to the rails. Reacting immediately, he applied emergency brakes and managed to halt the train just a few meters before the individual, who was later found to be under the influence of alcohol.

A 13-second video of the incident shows Khairnar shouting at the man to move away after stopping the train, following which the individual stumbled off the tracks. He was later removed from the section by railway staff.

Central Railway officials commended Khairnar’s presence of mind and quick response. “His vigilance and timely action prevented a possible loss of life. He upheld the highest standards of duty,” said a senior Central Railway official.

The incident, officials noted, did not cause any disruption in services as the rake was empty. However, they warned that such sudden halts would be nearly impossible if the train had been running at its usual passenger service speed of 90–100 kmph, which could have endangered hundreds of commuters.

Central Railway reiterated its appeal to the public to avoid trespassing or loitering near railway tracks. 

“Such negligence endangers lives and causes severe stress to motormen and loco pilots. Public cooperation is essential to ensure safe and timely train operations,” said Dr. Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer, Central Railway.