A gang of auto drivers in Lucknow has been busted for extorting thousands of rupees from passengers by promising to help them board Vande Bharat Express at the outer signals. RPF has arrested two culprits.

  • Auto drivers extorting up to ₹3000 from passengers at Lucknow Station.
  • Scam involved promising to board passengers into Vande Bharat at Mavaiya Yard.
  • RPF arrested two drivers and impounded the vehicle used in the crime.

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: In a brazen display of extortion, a gang of auto-rickshaw drivers operating near the Lucknow railway station has been caught red-handed by the Railway Protection Force (RPF). The criminals were targeting passengers by promising to facilitate boarding into premium trains like the Vande Bharat Express at the outer signals, charging exorbitant fees ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000.

The incident came to light when a passenger named Ranveer, who mistakenly arrived at Lucknow Station (Charbagh) instead of Lucknow Junction, was approached by an auto driver named Nitin Rajput. Rajput falsely claimed he could get the train's coach opened to let the passenger in, demanding ₹3,000 for the service. Upon reaching the Mavaiya Yard, the driver attempted to force the passenger through the sensor-equipped doors of the standing Vande Bharat Express.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this is not just a case of financial fraud but a massive security breach. By manipulating the automatic sensor-based doors of high-speed trains, these criminals are putting passenger lives and railway infrastructure at extreme risk. The gang exploits the confusion of travelers and the technical delays during point exchanges at the outer signals.

Security experts warn that unauthorized access to high-speed train compartments via outer signals can lead to fatal accidents and technical malfunctions.

Investigations reveal that the gang operates primarily in the early morning hours, between 4:00 AM and 6:00 AM, targeting passengers of high-profile trains including the Tejas Express, Shatabdi Express, and the Dehradun Vande Bharat Express. They take advantage of the 3-4 minute halts that trains often experience at the Mavaiya outer during line changes.

Historical Context of Station Scams

This is not an isolated incident. Last year, a doctor from KGMU was reportedly extorted for ₹2,000 in a similar manner. The geographical layout and the distinction between Lucknow Station and Lucknow Junction often confuse travelers, providing a perfect hunting ground for these organized criminals.

Did You Know?: Vande Bharat Express features advanced sensor-based automatic doors designed to prevent accidental opening while the train is in motion or at specific signal points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What action has the RPF taken?
Answer: The RPF has arrested two auto drivers and seized the auto-rickshaw used in the fraudulent activities.

Question 2: Which trains are most affected by this scam?
Answer: Premium trains like Vande Bharat, Tejas, and Shatabdi Express are the primary targets due to their high-profile passengers.