Sealdah DRM honors pointsman for saving elderly woman from approaching train

In a heart-stopping display of bravery, Sri Soumen Ganguly, a Pointsman at Bira Station, saved an elderly woman from certain death on the morning of December 18, 2025. The incident occurred as the 33365 Barasat-Bangaon Local was pulling into Platform No. 1. The passenger, while attempting to cross the tracks, found herself directly in the path of the oncoming train, unaware of the imminent danger.

Witnessing the crisis, Ganguly acted with split-second reflexes. Without hesitating for his own safety, he leaped onto the tracks and pulled the woman to safety just moments before the locomotive thundered past. Deeply moved by the rescue, the elderly passenger later submitted a formal letter to the railway authorities, emotionally stating that Sri Ganguly had given her a "second life."

Recognizing this exceptional act of devotion, the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Sealdah, Sri Rajeev Saxena, honored Soumen Ganguly with a bravery award on Tuesday. During the ceremony, the DRM hailed Ganguly’s swift actions, noting that such courageous employees are the true pride of the Indian Railways. He emphasized that while the staff remains vigilant, such life-threatening risks could be avoided if passengers strictly adhered to safety protocols.

While celebrating this act of heroism, the Railway administration has issued a fresh appeal to the public. DRM Saxena urged all commuters to prioritize their safety by using Foot Over Bridges (FOBs) and sternly warned against the dangerous practice of crossing tracks. The award serves as a reminder of the human element in railway safety, highlighting a staff member who went far beyond the call of duty to protect a life.