Could timely intervention prevent tragedy in Amritsar-Saharsa Express fire?

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Could timely intervention prevent tragedy in Amritsar-Saharsa Express fire?

Synopsis

On October 18, a swift response from railway employees saved lives when a fire broke out in the Amritsar-Saharsa Express. With no injuries reported, the emergency teams acted quickly to ensure passenger safety and extinguish the flames. This incident highlights the importance of prompt action in crisis situations.

Key Takeaways

  • Quick evacuation of passengers prevented injuries.
  • Emergency teams acted swiftly to extinguish the fire.
  • The incident occurred at Sirhind station at 7:30 a.m.
  • The fire's cause remains under investigation.
  • Train 12204 operates three times a week.

Chandigarh, Oct 18 (NationPress) A significant disaster was successfully avoided due to the prompt actions of railway personnel when a fire erupted in one of the AC coaches of the Amritsar-Saharsa Express (train 12204) at the Sirhind station in Punjab. No injuries were reported during this alarming incident.

The origin of the fire remains unknown, but the train continued its journey towards Saharsa in Bihar after thorough safety inspections.

Upon noticing the smoke, railway staff efficiently evacuated all passengers from the affected coach and relocated them to a different part of the train.

Emergency response teams swiftly extinguished the flames, halting any further spread. Railway officials confirmed that the fire was detected at approximately 7:30 a.m.

"The moment the incident was identified, Railway authorities acted decisively to transfer passengers to safer coaches and quickly quelled the fire. The train is set to depart for its destination soon, with no reported casualties. Time of incident: 7:30 a.m.," stated the Railways.

Footage of the event captured fire extinguishers in action as a significant blaze blazed in one of the coaches.

Other videos depicted passengers on the railway tracks while smoke billowed from one of the train's coaches.

A police representative mentioned that smoke was spotted in one of the AC coaches, prompting a safe evacuation of passengers.

Fire engines were promptly summoned to combat the fire, as noted by the official.

The Amritsar-Saharsa Garib Rath Express, numbered 12204, travels a distance of 1,716 km, taking over 31 hours to complete its journey. This train operates three times a week from Amritsar—on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Throughout its route between Amritsar and Saharsa, train number 12204 makes stops at 23 railway stations, including Beas, Jalandhar City, Phagwara, Dhandari Kalan, Ambala Cantt, Delhi, Hapur, Moradabad, Bareilly, Hardoi, Lucknow NR, Gorakhpur, Deoria Sadar, Siwan, Chhapra, Hajipur, Muzaffarpur, Samastipur, Dalsingh Sarai, Barauni, Begu Sarai, Khagaria, and S Bakhtiyarpur.

Point of View

I emphasize the importance of preparedness and rapid response in any emergency situation. The quick actions of railway personnel in this incident not only saved lives but also highlighted the need for ongoing training and safety protocols within our transportation systems. We must ensure such vigilance is maintained to protect the public.
NationPress
18/10/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the fire on the Amritsar-Saharsa Express?
The cause of the fire is still under investigation and has not yet been determined.
Were there any injuries reported during the incident?
No injuries were reported during the fire incident on the Amritsar-Saharsa Express.
What actions were taken by the railway staff during the fire?
Railway personnel promptly evacuated passengers from the affected coach and extinguished the fire with the help of emergency teams.
How long is the journey from Amritsar to Saharsa?
The Amritsar-Saharsa Garib Rath Express covers a distance of 1,716 km in over 31 hours.
What safety measures are in place for train passengers?
Railway authorities have protocols in place for emergencies, including quick evacuation procedures and immediate response teams.
Nation Press