The Railway Ministry has dismissed as “fake” reports claiming that a man traveled 250 kilometers from Itarsi to Jabalpur by hiding on a train’s wheel axle. A viral video showing a man emerging from the wheel area of a stationary train sparked widespread attention, with claims that financial constraints forced him to undertake the dangerous journey. Railway Board Executive Director Dilip Kumar clarified that the man was merely hiding under the stationary train and did not travel while it was in motion.

Kumar further explained the physical impossibility of such a feat, as the wheel axle moves with the train, making it extremely dangerous and unlikely for anyone to remain hidden while the train is operational. He also criticized social media influencers and some news outlets for amplifying the story without verifying its authenticity. The viral claims, according to the Railway Ministry, are baseless and misleading.

The incident highlights the challenges of verifying information in the age of social media, where sensational stories often gain traction without proper scrutiny. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified content, stressing the need for responsible reporting and consumption of information. Investigations are ongoing to identify the individual and the circumstances surrounding his actions.