A major fire incident was reported in the early hours of Monday after two air-conditioned coaches of the Tata Nagar–Ernakulam Express (Train No. 18189) caught fire near Duvvada in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district. According to preliminary reports, the blaze broke out around 1.30 am shortly after the train crossed Duvvada, triggering panic among passengers.
The fire reportedly originated in the B1 and M2 AC coaches, which were located adjacent to the pantry car. Railway officials said the incident was first noticed by the loco pilots near a railway point close to Yelamanchili, after smoke and flames were seen emerging from the coaches. Despite immediate efforts, the fire spread rapidly before fire services could reach the spot, completely gutting both AC coaches.
Tragically, a 70-year-old male passenger was reportedly charred to death in the incident. The identity of the deceased is yet to be officially confirmed, and railway authorities have ordered a detailed inquiry to ascertain the exact cause of the fire.
Rail Traffic Disrupted, Passengers Evacuated Safely
Following the incident, rail traffic on the busy Visakhapatnam–Vijayawada section was temporarily suspended, leading to delays for several trains operating on the route. Emergency response teams and railway officials rushed to the site to control the situation and ensure passenger safety.
Passengers travelling in the affected coaches were safely evacuated and later shifted to Samarlakota using Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) buses. At Samarlakota railway station, two replacement AC coaches were attached to the train after necessary safety checks.
After the coaches were replaced, the Tata Nagar–Ernakulam Express resumed its onward journey towards Ernakulam, officials said.
Probe Ordered Into Cause of Fire
Railway authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. Preliminary assessments are expected to examine possible electrical faults, issues related to the pantry car, or other technical reasons. Senior railway officials are expected to visit the site as part of the inquiry.
The incident has once again raised concerns over fire safety measures in long-distance trains, especially in air-conditioned coaches, prompting calls for stricter safety audits and enhanced monitoring systems.
