Fire breaks out on diesel-laden train near Tamil Nadu’s Tiruvallur

Tiruvallur: A diesel-laden goods train en route to Chennai caught fire near Tiruvallur railway station in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, resulting in a significant fuel leak and major disruption to train services between Arakkonam and Chennai. Railway authorities are working urgently to restore normal operations.

The train was carrying fuel from the Indian Oil Corporation terminal in Chennai to Bengaluru. Officials confirmed that the fire spread to five wagons. The exact cause remains undetermined, and an investigation is underway. No casualties have been reported so far.

Emergency teams are focusing on detaching the unaffected compartments and preventing further spread of the flames. The train comprises 52 wagons, and containment efforts have been operating around the clock to reduce risk.

In response, the district administration has mobilised police, fire, and revenue departments to coordinate rescue and containment efforts. Multiple vehicles have been deployed to manage the dense smoke billowing from the blaze.

Tiruvallur District Police Superintendent Srinivasa Perumal, who inspected the site, said, "The accident site has been cordoned off for safety reasons, and the fire department has been informed to tackle the fire... Railway authorities are working to separate the remaining compartments to prevent further damage. The public has been advised to avoid the accident site to ensure their safety."

He added, "Preliminary investigation suggests that the goods train was carrying diesel and may have derailed, causing the accident. Further investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the accident. The authorities are working to contain the situation and prevent any further damage or loss."

Patients under intensive care in nearby hospitals have been relocated to safer facilities, while residents in close proximity to the accident site are being evacuated.

Alternative transport arrangements are in place for affected passengers, with travel assistance being provided to nearby cities. Rescue operations have been ongoing since early morning under the supervision of the District Police Superintendent.

Authorities have assured that further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

(inputs from IANS)