What Caused the Fire on the Diesel-Laden Goods Train?
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Synopsis
A devastating fire broke out on a diesel goods train in Tamil Nadu, destroying 18 wagons and causing major disruptions. This incident has raised serious safety concerns regarding hazardous material transport on Indian Railways.
Key Takeaways
- 18 wagons destroyed in the fire.
- Estimated loss of Rs 12 crore in diesel.
- Immediate response from railway officials prevented casualties.
- Investigation teams formed to assess the cause.
- Concerns raised over safety protocols for hazardous materials.
Chennai, July 13 (NationPress) A significant inferno erupted in a diesel-laden goods train close to Tiruvallur in Tamil Nadu, which was completely extinguished after almost seven hours of vigorous firefighting on Sunday.
The fire, which ignited around 5:30 a.m., destroyed 18 wagons, leading to substantial disruptions on the bustling Chennai-Arakkonam railway line. The train was transporting 12.6 lakh litres of diesel across 18 tanker wagons, each containing 70,000 litres of fuel.
All 18 wagons were utterly devastated by the blaze, resulting in a diesel loss estimated at around Rs 12 crore.
Dramatic footage from the scene revealed the tankers reduced to a line of charred remains. According to a press statement from Southern Railway, the fire is suspected to have started in the third wagon as the train departed from Tiruvallur station.
The loco pilot acted swiftly by engaging emergency brakes, and the station master promptly disconnected the overhead electric power supply. However, the flames rapidly spread to the 19th wagon, causing derailments and extensive destruction.
Railway officials confirmed that the unaffected 30 wagons and the locomotive were safely uncoupled and relocated to a secure area. Thankfully, no injuries were reported during this incident.
Operations on the railway were significantly disrupted, with at least 12 trains traveling to and from Chennai Central either canceled or short-terminated, while numerous others were rerouted.
Stranded passengers were provided alternative transportation by the authorities, including buses from the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC).
Southern Railway General Manager R.N. Singh visited the site of the accident to assess ongoing restoration activities. Officials indicated that the DOWN line toward Bengaluru and Mangaluru via Jolarpettai is expected to be restored shortly.
Meanwhile, three special investigation teams led by the Additional Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) have been formed to determine the precise cause of the fire.
Initial evaluations are concentrating on potential technical failures or lapses in safety protocols during fuel transportation. This incident has raised significant concerns regarding the management of hazardous materials on Indian Railways, sparking calls for a reassessment of safety measures.
Point of View
This incident highlights the critical need for stringent safety standards in the transportation of hazardous materials. The swift response from railway officials prevented loss of life, but the destruction raises urgent questions about existing safety protocols. NationPress remains committed to advocating for improvements in infrastructure and safety measures to protect passengers and cargo alike.
NationPress
13/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire on the diesel train?
The fire is believed to have originated from the third wagon, with preliminary investigations focusing on possible technical faults or lapses in safety procedures.
Were there any casualties?
Fortunately, no casualties were reported during the incident despite the significant damage.
How was the situation managed?
Emergency brakes were applied, and the overhead power supply was cut off to prevent further escalation of the fire.
What actions are being taken post-incident?
Three special investigation teams have been formed to probe the incident, and restoration efforts are underway to resume normal train services.
How did this incident affect train services?
Train operations were heavily impacted, leading to the cancellation and diversion of numerous trains on the Chennai-Arakkonam route.
