A devastating fire broke out on the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express train in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, resulting in one fatality and leaving at least twenty passengers injured. The incident has sent shockwaves through the Indian Railways network and raised serious questions about onboard safety.
Panic and Chaos as Flames Engulf Coach
The fire erupted in the early hours of the morning, around 5:15 AM, when the train was traveling between the stations of Nellore and Vedayapalem. According to railway officials and eyewitness accounts, the blaze originated in the coach number S10, a sleeper class compartment. Panic ensued as thick smoke filled the coach, with passengers scrambling to escape the moving train.
Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and local authorities acted swiftly. The train was brought to an immediate halt, and rescue operations were launched. Fire tenders from the nearby Nellore district were rushed to the spot to douse the flames. The injured passengers were quickly transported to local hospitals for medical treatment.
The deceased has been identified as a 62-year-old passenger who was traveling in the affected S10 coach. The exact cause of death is under investigation, but it is believed to be due to severe burns and smoke inhalation.
Immediate Response and Investigation Launched
Senior railway officials, including the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of the Vijayawada division, promptly visited the accident site to oversee the relief efforts. The affected coach was detached from the train, and the remaining coaches of the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express were cleared to continue their journey after necessary inspections.
An official investigation into the cause of the fire has been initiated. Preliminary reports suggest that the fire may have started from an electrical short circuit within the coach. However, authorities have not ruled out other possibilities and are examining all angles. A forensic team has been deployed to the site to collect evidence and determine the exact origin and cause of the blaze.
The incident has disrupted rail traffic on the route temporarily, with some trains being delayed or diverted. Railway teams worked to clear the track and restore normal operations as soon as possible.
Safety Concerns and Passenger Welfare
This tragic event has once again highlighted critical safety concerns within India's vast railway system. Questions are being raised about the maintenance of older coaches, the effectiveness of fire safety equipment on board, and emergency preparedness protocols.
The Southern Railway zone has announced compensation for the victims and their families. Ex-gratia payments of Rs. 10 lakhs have been announced for the next of kin of the deceased, Rs. 2 lakhs for those grievously injured, and Rs. 50,000 for passengers with minor injuries.
Key facts from the incident:
- Train: 18047 Tatanagar-Ernakulam Express
- Date of Incident: Tuesday (as per source report)
- Location: Between Nellore and Vedayapalem stations, Andhra Pradesh
- Casualties: 1 passenger killed, at least 20 injured
- Affected Coach: S10 (Sleeper Class)
- Response: RPF, local fire services, and medical teams mobilized immediately.
The Indian Railways has assured the public that a thorough probe will be conducted and that steps will be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future. The focus remains on providing all necessary support to the affected passengers and their families during this difficult time.
