Think Twice Before Opening An Umbrella At Railway Stations – Here’s Why

We’ve all watched dramatic movie scenes of actors holding umbrellas in the rain, but hardly ever do we see them doing so on railway tracks. Yet in real life, this sight isn’t entirely uncommon. What most people don’t realize is just how dangerous it can be to hold an umbrella near train tracks. Few of us think about it, since we rarely linger near the tracks except while crossing at a level crossing. But even in those brief moments, carrying an open umbrella can pose serious risks. (Photo – AI)

When walking on, crossing, or standing near railway tracks, it is best to avoid using an umbrella—particularly one with a metal frame. Doing so can lead to an electric shock, ranging from mild to severe. People who have experienced it often describe it as a sharp jolt, a tingling sensation, or sudden numbness, much like a household electric shock. But around railway tracks, the consequences can be far more dangerous. Here’s the science behind it. (Image: AI)

The danger comes down to simple physics. On electrified railway lines, trains draw about 25,000 volts (25 kV) from overhead wires. This current powers the engine and is then routed safely back into the ground through a dedicated system to protect passengers. But in the process, electricity can sometimes reach people or objects close to the tracks, particularly if they are holding something conductive. An umbrella with a metal rod or frame can easily become that conductor. (Photo – AI)

Even without touching the wire, electricity can leap through the air in the form of an arc and strike the metal parts of an umbrella. This phenomenon, known as arcing, can deliver a powerful electric shock and, in some cases, prove fatal. (Photo – AI)

The intensity of the shock largely depends on how close the umbrella is to the overhead wires. The nearer it gets to these high-voltage lines, the higher the risk. At 25,000 volts, a single strike can stop the heart, cause severe burns, or lead to death within moments. Even from a short distance, a smaller jolt can make you drop the umbrella or lose balance—an especially dangerous scenario near moving trains or live tracks. (Photo – AI)

It may seem harmless to use an umbrella while standing on a railway platform since you are not directly under the wires. But the risk remains. Raising an umbrella too high near overhead lines can still be dangerous, and if it comes too close to a live wire, it could trigger a sudden electric shock. That’s why it’s safest to avoid opening or lifting an umbrella near railway lines, even when you’re on the platform. (Photo – AI)

Indian Railways has often cautioned against carrying or lifting metal objects near overhead lines. The risk is not limited to umbrellas but also includes rods, sticks, balloons with metallic strings, bamboo poles, or any other conductive item. The authority also stresses that walking on railway tracks is both illegal and extremely dangerous. Unfortunately, many people still ignore these warnings, unaware of the serious risks involved. (Photo – AI)

Umbrellas should never be used while crossing railway tracks, particularly at level crossings, and it is just as important to avoid raising them on platforms close to overhead wires. Walking on tracks is both illegal and highly dangerous. The threat of electric shock from high-voltage lines is real and can be fatal. A single careless moment is enough to turn into a tragedy. (Photo – AI)