Daijiworld Media Network- Sundergarh

Sundergarh, Aug 3: Tragedy struck near the Odisha-Jharkhand border on Sunday when a railway worker lost his life in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast along a railway track in Sundergarh district. Authorities suspect the involvement of Maoist insurgents, with posters recovered from the blast site pointing towards their role.

The deceased has been identified as Itua Oram, who served as a 'key man' with Indian Railways. The explosion occurred between Karampada and Renjda railway stations under the Bimlagarh section, an area bordering the dense Saranda forest, known for Maoist activity.

While the blast inflicted minor damage to the railway track, officials confirmed that it did not disrupt passenger services as the affected line is a loop route. Security forces and railway officials cordoned off the area, and clearance from the local police is awaited before maintenance work resumes.

Police sources noted the blast coincided with the Maoists’ call to observe ‘Shahid Saptah’ (Martyrs’ Week) from July 28 to August 3, further strengthening suspicion of their involvement.

Expressing deep sorrow over the incident, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh to the bereaved family. The assistance will be disbursed from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, as per an official statement from the CMO.

An investigation is currently underway to trace those responsible for the attack.