What Caused the Train Service Disruption in Sealdah South Due to a Fire at Santoshpur Station?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a shocking incident, a fire at Santoshpur station in Kolkata disrupted train services in the Sealdah South section. Over a dozen shops were affected, but thankfully there were no casualties. This incident raises questions about safety protocols and illegal encroachments at railway stations.
Key Takeaways
- Fire at Santoshpur station disrupted train services.
- Over a dozen shops were destroyed by the flames.
- Local residents initially tried to control the fire.
- No casualties were reported.
- Authorities plan to address illegal encroachments.
Kolkata, Sep 16 (NationPress) Train services faced disruption in the Sealdah South section of Eastern Railway after a significant fire ignited at Santoshpur station on Tuesday morning. Approximately a dozen shops within the railway station were consumed by flames. Four fire engines arrived promptly to combat the blaze. After two hours of intense effort, the fire was finally controlled, allowing train services to resume thereafter.
Eastern Railway officials reported that the fire started around 7:21 A.M., which suspended operations on the busy Sealdah-Budge Budge line. The inferno destroyed many shops before it was brought under control. Train services recommenced around 9:30 A.M. once the situation stabilized.
Reports indicate that local residents attempted to extinguish the flames initially, but their efforts with buckets of water were inadequate as the fire rapidly escalated.
Local train services between Ballygunge station and Budge Budge station were significantly impacted by the fire. Due to the presence of several shops near the station, the flames spread swiftly. The fire brigade was subsequently alerted.
The preliminary assessment suggests that the fire originated from a gas cylinder in one of the shops.
"The damage caused by the fire is substantial. Most of the shops and huts were destroyed as they were constructed from flammable materials. About 12 adjacent shops were incinerated. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties," stated a senior officer from South 24 Parganas district police.
A senior Railway official noted, "A shop ignited near the Foot Over Bridge on platform number one. We had previously identified this as an illegal encroachment. Following today’s event, we will take measures against such establishments. We will ensure that only legal shops remain on the station premises."
Eventually, train services resumed in the Sealdah South section. However, a significant influx of passengers at Santoshpur station ensued as many waited for hours to board a train.
Point of View
My perspective is aligned with the core values of NationPress, emphasizing the need for accountability and safety in public spaces. The Santoshpur incident highlights the risks posed by illegal structures and the imperative for authorities to enforce regulations to protect the public. We stand firmly in advocating for a safer environment for all commuters.
NationPress
05/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at Santoshpur station?
The initial investigation suggests that the fire may have started from a gas cylinder in one of the shops at the station.
Were there any casualties due to the fire?
Fortunately, there were no reported casualties as a result of the fire at Santoshpur station.
How long did it take to extinguish the fire?
The fire was brought under control after approximately two hours of effort by the fire brigade.
What impact did the fire have on train services?
Train services on the Sealdah-Budge Budge line were disrupted until around 9:30 A.M. when operations resumed.
What measures will be taken following this incident?
Authorities have indicated that they will take action against illegal encroachments at the station to ensure safety.
