Powerful Explosion on Railway Track in Assam’s Kokrajhar Halts Train Services

October 23, 2025

Kokrajhar, Oct 23: A powerful blast on a railway track in Assam’s Kokrajhar district on Thursday morning disrupted train services, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. Initial reports suggest that the blast may have been caused by an improvised explosive device (IED).

The blast took place about five kilometres east of Kokrajhar railway station, between the Kokrajhar and Salkati sections, causing extensive damage to the track and forcing authorities to suspend all train movement on both the up and down lines.

Panic among passengers, trains stranded for hours

The sudden blast caused panic among passengers and several trains were stopped at nearby stations. Hundreds of passengers had to wait for hours amid confusion as emergency announcements appealed to passengers to remain calm and follow safety instructions.

Teams from the Railway Department, Police and Bomb Disposal Units reached the spot, cordoned off the area to inspect the damaged section, collect forensic samples and assess the crater created by the blast.

Investigation and repairs underway

Senior police officers and railway officials reached the spot to supervise the repairs and investigation. While no casualties were reported, the blast affected both passenger and freight services on the busy route.

A senior police officer confirmed that about one metre of the railway track was damaged in the blast. The section has since been repaired, and train operations have resumed, though security forces are on high alert.

Cause of blast yet to be confirmed

The authorities are yet to officially ascertain the cause of the blast. While initial reports point to an IED, investigators are awaiting confirmation from forensic experts. The exact motive and those responsible for the blast are still unknown.

Investigation teams are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with intelligence agencies to identify potential suspects or links to terrorist activities.

Security has been stepped up across the region

Following the incident, security has been stepped up in Kokrajhar and neighbouring districts. Additional patrols have been deployed on major railway routes to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent further disruptions.

Officials said the blast highlights ongoing security concerns in sensitive areas and the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to potential sabotage or terrorist acts.

Investigation underway

Authorities are continuing to investigate the blast, focusing on the type of device used, possible local accomplices and any external involvement. Until the investigation is concluded, residents and travellers should exercise caution as heightened security measures remain in place in Assam’s Kokrajhar district.