In a heart-stopping incident that could have turned tragic, the Delhi-Saharsa Garib Rath Express became the scene of a major fire emergency near Sirhind in Punjab's Fatehgarh Sahib district. The dramatic event unfolded on Monday, sending shockwaves through the railway community.
The incident occurred around 8:45 AM when smoke and flames were spotted billowing from one of the coaches. Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick black smoke engulfing the compartment as the train was moving, creating panic among passengers.
Miraculous Escape for All Onboard
In what authorities are calling nothing short of miraculous, all passengers aboard the affected coach managed to escape unharmed. The quick thinking of railway staff and the alertness of fellow passengers prevented what could have been a major tragedy.
"The evacuation was conducted with remarkable efficiency," said a railway official present at the scene. "Despite the initial panic, everyone worked together to ensure all passengers reached safety."
Emergency Response Springs into Action
Local authorities and railway officials immediately swung into action upon receiving information about the fire. Emergency services were dispatched to the location, and the affected coach was quickly isolated to prevent the fire from spreading to other compartments.
The railway protection force and local police established a security perimeter while firefighting operations were underway. The intensity of the blaze was such that it completely gutted the interior of the coach, reducing seats and luggage to ashes.
Investigation Underway
Railway authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. Preliminary reports suggest an electrical short circuit might have triggered the blaze, though official confirmation is awaited.
"A detailed technical examination will be conducted to ascertain the precise reason behind this incident," assured a senior railway official. "Safety audits of similar coaches will be prioritized to prevent recurrence."
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of railway safety protocols and emergency preparedness. While the material damage was significant, the safe evacuation of all passengers stands as a testament to improved emergency response mechanisms in Indian Railways.
