Ishfaq Gulzar CNI

Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu : A major fire broke out early Sunday morning when four wagons of a goods train carrying diesel caught fire near Tiruvallur Railway Station, close to Chennai. The incident happened around 5:30 a.m. and caused a big panic in the area.

District Collector M. Prathap said the train was on its way from Manali to Jolarpet when the fire started. “We immediately started rescue work and moved people from nearby areas to safety,” he said.

To stop the fire from spreading, railway staff quickly detached 47 other wagons from the burning section. Police and local authorities have sealed off the danger zone, and people living nearby are being evacuated as a precaution.

Eight trains from Chennai were cancelled, five diverted, and eight others ended their journey earlier than planned due to the fire.

Over 25 fire engines from Chennai, Kanchipuram, and Chengalpet rushed to the spot. The fire is mostly under control now, and full dousing is expected within an hour.

Food and shelter have been arranged for those forced to leave their homes. Officials are still trying to find out what caused the fire.

Trains are expected to run normally once the area is declared safe.