Agnipath protests: Several trains canceled in Andhra; security beefed up after agencies intercept Whatsapp message

Andhra Pradesh: Several trains were canceled or diverted after intelligence reports suggested that anti-Agnipath protesters might resort to arson at railway stations. Security was beefed up at all the major railway stations in the state. A large number of police and Railway Protection Force (RPF) jawans were deployed at Visakhapatnam, Guntur, Ongole, Tirupati, Nellore, Tenali, Rajahmundry, and Kakinada railway stations to keep arsonists at bay.

Some of the major railway stations suspended the entry of passengers till June 18 afternoon.

Vizag station closed till noon

All the trains at Visakhapatnam railway station were suspended till noon. The roads leading to Railway Station were closed. Sources said on June 17, agencies intercepted a WhatsApp message asking youngsters to hold a protest at Visakhapatnam railway station on Saturday morning. However, police made sure no such incidents took place.

Helpdesk at Vijayawada

Vijayawada railway officials have set up a special helpdesk. Passengers can dial 0866-2767055 or 0866-2767075 to inquire about the train status.

Protests foiled at Guntur, Tirupati

Police foiled a protest march of youth in the Guntur district. Youth tried to stage protests near the army recruitment academy. . However alert cops immediately swung into action and took them into custody. Security was also beefed up to prevent the march of youth towards the Tirupati railway station.

Security at the tracks

RPF jawans are patrolling railway tracks to ensure that youth do not stage a protest. Security forces have decided to check all passengers before allowing them into the railway station in a bid to keep protestors at bay.