A wave of train bombings has swept across Ukraine: what to do if you are dropped off in the middle of nowhere

In Ukraine, there has been an increase in false reports of bombs on trains, forcing passengers to leave trains in the middle of the road and wait for hours for inspections. These incidents cause traffic disruptions and create a tense atmosphere among travellers. Find out what to do in such a situation, what to take with you, and how to keep yourself safe during a forced evacuation

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In recent days, there have been a series of reports of bomb threats on Ukrzaliznytsia trains across Ukraine. Fortunately, each of these calls turned out to be false, but checks take hours, and passengers often have to leave the train not at a station, but in the open. Such cases are stressful not only because of the waiting, but also because of the unpredictable conditions, especially during the cold season.

Why have reports of train bombings become more frequent?

Experts note that false reports of bombings are intended not so much to intimidate citizens as to temporarily paralyse traffic on key routes. Blocking main lines and international routes causes a chain reaction - delays, schedule disruptions and logistical chaos. It also affects the work of railway workers, whose shifts and schedules are disrupted.

People are taken off trains in the middle of the road: how the evacuation takes place

After receiving a signal about a possible threat, train drivers are required to stop the train immediately, and conductors must take passengers to a safe place. The check can take from half an hour to several hours.

While dog handlers inspect the train, passengers are asked to wait in an open area — sometimes in a field, sometimes by the road. In bad weather, people with children may be placed in police cars or buses.

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What to do if your train is evacuated?

❗️ Stay calm and follow the instructions of the conductors and police. Any resistance or panic may hinder the evacuation.

❗️ The police are checking the perimeter, and it is better to stay within sight of the train.

❗️ Do not go back for forgotten items. Even if there are documents or technical equipment there, wait for permission from law enforcement officers.

❗️ Do not post photos or videos from the evacuation site. This may interfere with the work of the services and pose a threat to safety.

What to have with you in case of such situations

Travelling under martial law, which has been in effect in Ukraine since February 2022, obviously requires additional preparation. As recent events show, a normal train journey can be interrupted unexpectedly. To avoid being caught off guard in such situations, we recommend that you have the following with you when travelling:

▪️ Take warm clothes with you: a light blanket, gloves, a thermal jacket or raincoat — they will come in handy if the evacuation takes a long time.

▪️ Power bank and charging cable. It is better to have a reserve for 1–2 full phone charges.

▪️ A minimum supply of water and snacks: nuts, bars, biscuits — they have a long shelf life and do not take up much space.

▪️ Flashlight or headlamp. If the evacuation takes place at night, this will help you find your way around.

▪️ First aid kit: plasters, painkillers, personal medication.

▪️ Cash. Not everywhere has mobile coverage or the option to pay by card.

Could Ukraine tighten checks at train stations?

Experts believe that passenger checks at train stations are unlikely to be expanded. The greatest damage is caused by train stops, not threats at train stations. Checking every passenger at the entrance to the building would take too much time and would not guarantee the prevention of false alarms.

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