Train Fire: Major Fire Breaks Out in Garib Rath Express near Sirhind, Passengers Evacuate Safely

A potential disaster was averted on Saturday morning when a major fire broke out in an AC coach of the Garib Rath Express (Train No. 12204, Amritsar-Saharsa Garib Rath Express) near Sirhind station in Punjab, while the train was traveling from Ludhiana towards Delhi when the incident occurred around 7:30 AM, shortly after it had crossed Sirhind station. Initial investigations point towards a short circuit as the cause of the fire.

Prompt Evacuation Saves Lives

The fire originated in AC coach number 19, which reportedly had several passengers, including traders from Ludhiana. Panic ensued among passengers as smoke began to fill the bogie. The alert loco pilot immediately applied emergency brakes, bringing the train to a halt. Passengers were promptly instructed to evacuate, leaving their belongings behind to ensure their safety. While railway officials confirmed no fatalities, some passengers sustained minor injuries in the scramble to exit the train amidst the chaos.

Fire Under Control, Investigation Ordered

Upon receiving the alarm, railway, police, and fire brigade teams swiftly arrived at the scene. Firefighters battled the blaze for approximately an hour before bringing it completely under control. The Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of Northern Railway, Ambala, confirmed that. The situation was under control and no casualties had been reported. The Ministry of Railways stated that railway officials acted promptly, relocating passengers to other coaches. An investigation has been ordered to ascertain the precise cause of the. Fire and to implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The train is expected to resume its journey to its destination shortly after necessary checks.