The Border Security Force (BSF) has raised significant concerns regarding the logistics surrounding a special train operated by the Northeast Frontier Railway, designated for transporting troops to Jammu and Kashmir for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. According to a communication sent to railway officials, a commandant-level officer expressed dissatisfaction with both the prolonged delay of over 72 hours and the unsatisfactory condition of the train coaches, which were described as “unhygienic and dilapidated.”
Originally scheduled to arrive at Udaipur Railway Station in Tripura on June 6, the train did not reach until the evening of June 9. This delay left approximately 1,300 personnel from 13 BSF companies stranded, jeopardizing their timely induction into J&K, as they were expected to arrive by June 12, just weeks ahead of the yatra that commences on July 3.
Upon inspecting the coaches, BSF personnel encountered a troubling situation. They discovered that the interiors were infested with cockroaches and other insects. The washroom facilities were found to be damaged and soiled with human waste, lacking water supply. Photographic evidence collected by the troops and submitted to authorities displayed the appalling conditions, raising considerable health and safety concerns for the long-duration journey.
In response to the BSF’s complaints, the Northeast Frontier Railway issued a statement explaining that the coaches in question were slated for maintenance and should not have been used. K. K. Sharma, the Chief Public Relations Officer of NFR, clarified that the videos circulating online depicted coaches marked for Periodic Overhauling and were not intended for passenger use. He noted that these problematic coaches were disconnected in Agartala, and the situation was rectified prior to the train continuing its route.
Despite eventually departing for Jammu and Kashmir on a Tuesday evening, BSF officials continue to express worries that both the unforeseen delay and the lack of proper coordination could affect the deployment timeline. This concern is particularly urgent given the recent Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, underscoring the imperative need for heightened security measures.
In preparation for the Amarnath Yatra, the Ministry of Home Affairs has authorized the deployment of 425 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies, with 130 allocated to the BSF. This augmentation comes on top of the 156 companies already present in the region, reflecting the critical importance of safety and security for the event.
The BSF has formally urged the rail authorities to replace the deficient coaches and ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards for troop movements in future operations, emphasizing the gravity of the situation in maintaining the health and safety of personnel during deployments.
