Patna/Muzaffarpur: Reports of theft on trains departing from Muzaffarpur have surged, leaving passengers and traders frustrated. Items stolen include passengers’ mobile phones, luggage, and parcels, with merchants alleging inadequate enforcement by the Government Railway Police (GRP) and the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
The latest incident occurred on December 7, when six cartons of bags valued at several lakh rupees were stolen from the Pawan Express en route from Jaynagar to Lokmanya Tilak Terminus in Mumbai. Merchant Amresh Kumar had shipped 11 cartons, but only five arrived in Mumbai.
This follows a similar incident in November, when nine cartons sent via the same train to Mumbai were reduced to just three upon arrival, with six missing.
The stolen bags are manufactured by Kasmaas Lifestyle Private Limited, based in Bela Industrial Area, Muzaffarpur. The company produces school bags, laptop bags, and travel kits, distributing them to states including Delhi, Mumbai, and Hubballi.
Traders report that parcels typically travel safely up to Chhapra, but thefts occur between Ballia, Varanasi, Katni, and Jabalpur, suggesting organised groups are targeting the route. Despite complaints filed with the East Central Railway and the Ministry of Railways, merchants say no effective action has been taken, even though escort parties are regularly present on the Pawan Express.
Merchants warn that unless the GRP and RPF implement stricter safeguards, these thefts will continue to affect commerce and passenger trust on the route.
