Thane: Mysterious Discovery of 54 Detonators at Kalyan Railway Station Sparks Investigation

Kalyan, 21st February 2024: Around 54 detonators were discovered outside platform number 1 of Kalyan railway station in Mumbai on February 21. The railway police, local police, and bomb squad swiftly reached the scene. Initial reports suggest that these are electronic detonators used for breaking mountains. Authorities are investigating how they ended up near the railway station, exploring whether it was an unintentional abandonment or a deliberate act. CCTV footage near Kalyan Railway Station is being scrutinized as part of the ongoing investigation.

The discovery consisted of more than 50 detonators found in two boxes left unattended on platform No. 1. A dog squad and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) were summoned to inspect the scene. The BDDS team took custody of the boxes and uncovered a total of 54 detonators inside. While the Kalyan GRP has initiated an investigation, an official statement indicates that a case is yet to be registered in connection with the seizure. Senior police officials, including those from Thane city, have visited the location where the detonators were found.

Detonators are commonly employed in the Thane district for illegal fishing in lakes and for blasting operations in quarries. They are used to generate shockwaves through the water, stunning or killing fish for subsequent collection. Kalyan railway station, situated on the outskirts of Mumbai, caters to both long-distance and suburban commuters and is typically heavily crowded.

Manoj Patil, DCP GRP, informed the media, “Fifty-four electric detonators were found in Kalyan West. These are the primary sources used for detonating explosives for blasting mines and wells. A person associated with the police’s ‘Eyes and Ears’ initiative provided information about the detonators. An investigation is underway. These are only detonators, and no explosives were found.”