A 31-year-old man died after being struck by a coconut thrown from a passing train on the Bhayandar Creek Bridge in Palghar district, Maharashtra. The victim, Sanjay Dattaram Bhoir, was on his way to work on Saturday morning, September, 27, when the incident occurred.
Bhoir, a resident of Panju Island, was walking to Naigaon across the railway bridge. Many locals use this path, as the boat services from the island were suspended due to bad weather.
Reports stated that a commuter on a local train was performing a ritual, immersing Nirmalya, sacred floral offerings including coconuts, into the creek. One coconut was flung into the water but struck Bhoir between the ear and the eye instead. The impact caused severe injuries.
People around there took him to a private hospital in Vasai. Due to the seriousness of his head injury, he was then transferred to JJ Hospital in Mumbai. Despite this, he passed away during treatment.
Local authorities confirmed the incident on Sunday and described it as a deadly consequence of careless religious practices. Panju Island has no road access, making the railway bridge the only route for emergencies. Over the years, passengers throwing coconuts, flowers, and other offerings from trains have caused many accidents.
Authorities are investigating the case to find the person who threw the coconut. They are reviewing CCTV recordings and talking to witnesses. Officials have also reminded the public to exercise caution while performing religious rites.