'Murderer Express': Railway's Translation Error Alters Train's Name

The Hatia-Ernakulam Express garnered online attention when a photo of a signboard onboard displayed the translation of "Hatia" as "Kolapathakam" (murderer) in Malayalam. Hatia, a location in Ranchi, serves as one endpoint for the weekly service connecting it to Ernakulam.

Shhhh, nobody tell them. 🤫 pic.twitter.com/e99DjVsBsj

— Cow Momma (@Cow__Momma) April 11, 2024

One social media user humorously commented, "Shhhh, nobody tell them," alongside the picture of the board. Another user chimed in, remarking, "Too much reliance on Google Translate," on the same post. Following the viral spread of the post online, the Railways authorities promptly took action by covering the Malayalam word with yellow paint.

Hatia-Ernakulam Express train's name plate translates Hatia to 'murder' in Malayalam; Picture goes viral@RailMinIndia @AshwiniVaishnaw pic.twitter.com/pcOjfmvshS

— Mario David Antony Alapatt (@davidalapatt) April 12, 2024

As per a report, a Railways official explained that the translation error occurred due to confusion with the Hindi word "Hatya," which means "murder."

The Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (Sr DCM) of Ranchi Division acknowledged the mistake and confirmed that the incorrect nameplate was rectified promptly after it was brought to their attention.