In a dramatic rescue operation that took place late on the night of February 10, 2026, railway cops heroically saved the life of a man who had fell of a bridge at Vaitarna near Mumbai, officials said.
According to the officials, the operation took place at Vaitarna Bridge No. 92 near Virar.
A 24-year-old man, Uday Mangesh Bangad, was safely rescued after falling into the creek below the railway bridge.
The incident happened at around 11 pm when the on-duty porter Rahul and a railway lineman informed the authorities that a person had fallen into the water beneath the bridge, they said.
Swift response by RPF staff
Railway cop — Constable Pawan Kumar– immediately responded to the emergency. Without delay, he rushed to the spot along with a Home Guard and porter Rahul, the officials said.
On reaching the bridge, they saw a young man clinging to a bridge pillar in the creek below.
A man fell from a moving train into Vaitarna Creek near Palghar late at night, triggering a swift rescue response. RPF personnel and locals rushed to the spot after receiving alerts and spotted him clinging to a bridge pillar in the water to stay alive.
Using ropes and a boat,… pic.twitter.com/jYUyXmjcix
— Mid Day (@mid_day) February 12, 2026
Showing great courage and presence of mind, Kumar used a rope and an iron rod to carefully climb down towards the man.
He managed to hold and support him, preventing him from slipping further into the water.
Boat arranged for safe rescue
The NG staff were quickly informed and a rescue boat was arranged. With the help of the boat team, the young man was safely brought out of the creek.
The rescue operation was successful due to quick coordination and teamwork.
Several local individuals also supported the rescue efforts. Those who assisted at the scene included Guru Patil and Sai Patil, leaders of Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ramesh Singh (Railway employee).
The rescued man was later identified as Uday Mangesh Bangad, a resident of Capture Pada, Boisar in Palghar.
Reunited with family
According to the officials, his family members were informed immediately by telephone. After some time, his mother and brother reached Vaitarna station by road. The young man was safely handed over to them.
The family expressed heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the RPF staff for saving his life. The incident was also reported to the on-duty officer.
The timely action and bravery of the rescue team helped prevent a possible tragedy, said the officials.
