What Happened in the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express Fire Incident?
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Synopsis
On December 29, a fire broke out in the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express in Yelamanchili, Andhra Pradesh. The Railways quickly responded by establishing helpline numbers to assist affected passengers. Tragically, one fatality has been reported amid the chaos. Stay tuned for updates on the incident and ongoing investigations.
Key Takeaways
- The Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express caught fire early on December 29.
- Helpline numbers have been established for affected passengers.
- One fatality has been reported during the incident.
- Immediate action was taken to assist and evacuate passengers.
- An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.
Visakhapatnam, Dec 29 (NationPress) The Railways have established helpline numbers to aid passengers and provide train schedule updates after a fire incident occurred in the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express at Yelamanchili, Andhra Pradesh early on Monday.
The South Central Railway (SCR) has set up the following helpline numbers: Yelamanchili – 7815909386, Anakapalli – 7569305669, Tuni – 7815909479, Samalkot – 7382629990, Rajahmundry - 088 – 32420541, 088 – 32420543, Eluru – 7569305268, and Vijayawada - 0866 – 2575167.
The SCR reported that a fire broke out in Train No 18189 Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express around 12:45 a.m. as it was approaching Yelamanchili Railway Station.
According to officials, the fire impacted the B1 and M2 coaches. Railway personnel responded promptly, alerting the Fire Brigade, and immediately assisted passengers in evacuating the train. The Fire Brigade arrived swiftly and extinguished the flames.
Officials indicated that the affected coaches were uncoupled, and an additional AC III Tier Coach (M1) was also detached as a safety measure.
The remaining train is being relocated to Samalkot Railway Station, where three empty coaches are being readied for attachment to the train.
In the meantime, passengers from the two involved coaches are being transported to Samalkot Railway Station via bus.
The Commissioner of Railway Safety for the SCR, along with the DRM Vijayawada and other senior officials, quickly arrived at the scene. The General Manager of South Central Railway is also heading to the location.
A forensic and medical team is en route to investigate the fire's cause and assess potential casualties, as stated by the SCR.
All necessary precautions are being coordinated with the local administration, the statement added.
Local police reported that a deceased passenger was discovered in one of the affected coaches. The victim has been identified as Chandrsekhar Sundaram, 70, a resident of Vijayawada.
At the time of the incident, there were 82 passengers in the B-1 coach and 75 in the M-2 coach.
Point of View
The swift response of the Railways and local authorities to the fire incident in the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express reflects a commitment to passenger safety. The establishment of helplines and the immediate actions taken to assist passengers show a proactive approach, although the tragedy of loss underscores the need for rigorous safety protocols.
NationPress
30/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire in Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express?
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing, with forensic and medical teams deployed to gather evidence.
How can affected passengers get assistance?
Passengers can reach out to established helpline numbers for assistance and train running information.
Was there any loss of life in the incident?
Yes, unfortunately, one deceased passenger has been identified.
Where can I find more updates on the incident?
Stay tuned to local news outlets and the Railways' official communications for the latest updates.
What measures are being taken to ensure safety?
Railway officials are coordinating with local administration to implement necessary safety precautions.
