The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Vande Bharat Express (Train No. 22961) was targeted in a stone-pelting incident on Tuesday evening near Surat, Gujarat. The incident occurred while the Uttar Pradesh Governor and former Gujarat Chief Minister, Anandiben Patel, was a passenger on the train. While the attack resulted in damage to the train's exterior, officials have confirmed that the Governor remained unharmed throughout the ordeal.
Details of the Incident
According to preliminary information, the stone-pelting took place between Utran and Kosad stations, falling within the Surat region. The event occurred in the window between 6:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. as the train was making its way toward Ahmedabad after departing from Mumbai.
The impact of the stones caused visible damage to the glass windows of two specific coaches: C-6 and C-10. Despite the damage to these sections of the train, there were no immediate reports of injuries to any passengers on board. Anandiben Patel was reported to be safe, as she was traveling in the Executive Coach at the time of the incident.
Investigation and Suspect Detention
Following the report of the attack, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) mobilized to the scene. Authorities successfully detained a man, estimated to be around 30 years old, who was found in the vicinity of the railway tracks.
Preliminary questioning conducted by officials suggested that the individual was heavily intoxicated at the time of his apprehension. Police and RPF personnel are currently working to:
- Establish the identity of the detained man.
- Determine the extent of his involvement in the stone-pelting.
- Clarify the circumstances that led to the incident.
- Investigate whether other individuals were involved in the attack.
Background on Governor Anandiben Patel’s Visit
Anandiben Patel, who has served as the Governor of Uttar Pradesh since 2019 and currently holds the title of the state's longest-serving governor, has been in Gujarat on a 10-day leave. This period of leave, which commenced on August 17 and is scheduled to conclude on August 26, was reportedly taken for personal and family engagements.
During her time in the region, the Governor visited several areas within the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, including stops in Silvassa and Daman. Notably, on August 23, she attended the Monsoon Festival-2026 held at Devka Beach in Daman. During that event, she advocated for increased awareness among the youth regarding the dangers associated with substance abuse.
The Governor is expected to return to Uttar Pradesh following the conclusion of her leave period on August 26. Authorities continue to monitor the situation regarding the investigation into the stone-pelting incident as they work to ensure the security of the rail corridor.
