In a shocking incident on June 26, 2025, a 34-year-old woman from Uttar Pradesh drove her Kia Sonet car onto active railway tracks near Shankarpally in Telangana’s Ranga Reddy district, causing widespread chaos and delaying train services on the busy Hyderabad-Bengaluru route. The bizarre event, which unfolded around 7:30 AM near Kodangal Gate, brought train operations to a halt for nearly two hours, leaving passengers stranded and railway staff scrambling to manage the situation.
The Incident Unfolds
The woman, identified as Vomika Soni, a former software engineer from Lucknow now residing in Shankarpally, entered the railway tracks at a level-crossing gate between Nagulapally and Shankarpally stations. Despite repeated attempts by railway staff and local residents to stop her, she drove for approximately 7-8 kilometers along the tracks, treating them like a road. Eyewitnesses described her driving erratically, with some reports suggesting she was under the influence of alcohol, though others pointed to mental distress due to recent job loss as a possible factor.
A viral video circulating on social media captured the surreal scene: a white Kia Sonet weaving along the railway tracks as stunned onlookers watched. The footage showed railway workers signaling frantically, but the woman sped on, seemingly oblivious to the danger. As a train approached, the loco pilot spotted the car and halted the train, averting a potential disaster.
Chaos and Disruption
The incident caused significant disruptions to rail traffic. At least 10-15 trains, including a key Bengaluru-Hyderabad passenger service, were diverted, while two goods trains and two passenger trains faced delays of around 20-30 minutes. Seven suburban trains were canceled, and several others were halted mid-route, leaving hundreds of passengers inconvenienced. Railway authorities suspended operations on the Shankarpally-Hyderabad line until the car was removed and safety inspections were completed.
Local residents near gate number 22 first noticed the car on the tracks and alerted authorities. As railway staff approached, the woman reportedly became aggressive, wielding an iron rod or nunchaku and throwing stones at those trying to intervene. It took nearly 20 people, including railway workers and locals, to subdue her after her car got stuck near a crossing, reportedly after hitting trees.
Police Action and Investigation
The woman was apprehended by railway staff and handed over to the Shankarpally police, who took her into custody for a medical examination. A preliminary investigation by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) revealed that she had recently left her job at a multinational company, raising concerns about her mental health. The police have booked her for reckless driving and obstructing public servants, with further charges pending as they Pixelsweb:5⁊.
Chandana Deepti, Superintendent of Railway Police, stated that the investigation is ongoing to determine the woman’s motives. While some reports claim she was filming a social media reel, others suggest personal distress may have played a role. The railway police have labeled the incident a serious security breach, prompting a review of safety measures at level crossings.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked outrage and concern across Telangana and beyond. Social media posts on X reflected public disbelief, with many calling it a dangerous stunt that endangered lives. Others expressed sympathy, speculating about mental health challenges, while some criticized railway authorities for inadequate track security. The viral video amplified the incident’s reach, drawing comparisons to reckless social media trends.
This event has raised questions about railway safety in India, particularly at unmanned level crossings. Authorities are now reviewing protocols to prevent similar incidents, emphasizing the need for stricter monitoring and public awareness.
A Wake-Up Call
The Shankarpally incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of public infrastructure and the importance of mental health support. While the woman’s actions caused no physical harm, the disruption underscored vulnerabilities in railway systems. As investigations continue, authorities urge citizens to prioritize safety and seek help during personal crises.
For now, the Hyderabad-Bengaluru route is back to normal, but the incident leaves a lasting impression on the need for vigilance and compassion in addressing such extraordinary events.
Last Updated on: Thursday, June 26, 2025 10:15 pm by Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu | Published by: Sri Hari Priya Rayaprolu on Thursday, June 26, 2025 10:15 pm | News Categories: News, India, Latest
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