What Caused the Diesel-Fueled Goods Train Fire Near Tiruvallur?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Emergency Services are actively working to contain the fire.
- Investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing.
- Significant disruptions to train services between Arakkonam and Chennai.
- No casualties have been reported.
- Authorities are ensuring safety by evacuating nearby residents.
Tiruvallur, July 13 (NationPress) A diesel-laden goods train headed to Chennai ignited flames near the Tiruvallur railway station in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, leading to a substantial fuel leak.
This incident has precipitated considerable disruptions in train services between Arakkonam and Chennai, prompting railway officials to expedite efforts to restore normalcy.
The train was transporting fuel from the Indian Oil Corporation terminal in Chennai to Bengaluru and saw flames engulfing five of its wagons.
The origin of the fire has not yet been established, and authorities have initiated an investigation. Fortunately, there have been no reported casualties.
Emergency responders are currently engaged in detaching the unaffected compartments to halt the spread of the fire. The goods train comprises a total of 52 wagons, and officials are working tirelessly to avert any additional hazards.
The local administration has promptly assembled all relevant agencies, including police, fire, and revenue departments, to coordinate rescue and containment measures. Several vehicles have been dispatched to manage the thick smoke billowing from the blaze.
Tiruvallur District Police Superintendent Srinivasa Perumal, who assessed the scene, stated, "The accident site has been secured for safety, and the fire department is on-site to combat the blaze... Railway officials are striving to separate the remaining compartments to mitigate further damage. The public is urged to steer clear of the area for their own safety."
He further noted, "Initial investigations indicate that the goods train was transporting diesel and may have derailed, leading to the incident. Further inquiries are ongoing to clarify the cause of the accident. Authorities are dedicated to controlling the situation and preventing additional damage or loss."
Efforts are also underway to transfer patients in critical care at nearby hospitals to safer locations to ensure their health and safety. Simultaneously, local officials are evacuating residents from homes in close proximity to the site of the accident.
Alternative transportation options are being arranged for affected train passengers, with authorities facilitating travel to nearby cities. Rescue and containment operations have been actively conducted since early morning under the oversight of the District Police Superintendent.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, and authorities have promised to provide updates as more information becomes available.