Moving train catches fire in Prayagraj, passengers rescued

PRAYAGRAJ, April 13 (HS): Timely intervention of the driver averted a major tragedy when the engine of Lokmanya Tilak Special train from Kolkata to Mumbai caught fire near Jaitwaar Deeh village under Tharwai police station in Prayagraj. The incident occurred at the busy Mumbai Kolkata route on Tuesday, which affected movement of several trains.

When the train, from Kolkata to Mumbai was passing through Tharwai in Prayagraj, the driver noticed smoke coming out of rear portion of the engine. He applied brakes and informed the control room, asking for fire tenders to be sent. The electric supply to OHE (Over Head Equipment) was stopped.

In the meantime, the driver, along with other railway staff, used fire extinguishers to douse the flames coming from the engine. The engine was also separated from the train to prevent the fire from spreading to coaches. Fire tenders reached the spot to control the fire. The fire was finally doused after hectic efforts. Electric supply to OHE was restored and movement of the train started. Several trains were halted due to the incident. A relief loco was simultaneously ordered which came and took the engine. And the same loco carried the train forward! A railway official told HS, “An inquiry panel has been set up which will comprise mechanical, safety and operational department’s officers. The cause of the fire can be ascertained once the report of the inquiry comes.” All passengers are safe and no causality took place.