In a tragic incident in southern India’s Andhra Pradesh, a fire broke out in a train at a major railway station, causing significant damage to an empty coach. Fortunately, there were no casualties.

The incident took place in the 18517 Korba-Visakhapatnam Express at Visakhapatnam railway station on August 4.

Visuals showed thick black smoke billowing from the train’s coaches. Individuals on the platform appeared distressed and shocked as they tried to extinguish the smoke, all while ensuring the safety of others.

According to reports, the train arrived at the station at 6:30 a.m. on August 4, and the coaches were stationed on Platform No. 4. The fire ignited in the B-7 coach around 10 a.m. and was noticed by someone who promptly informed the railway personnel. Thick smoke billowed from the B-7 coach as the fire intensified, spreading to the B-6 and M-1 coaches. The affected coaches were promptly detached and moved away.

Fire Services personnel quickly brought the blaze under control. Railway officials, Government Railway Police, and Railway Protection Force (RPF) staff rushed to the scene, breaking the glass windows of the 3rd AC (B-7) coach. Fire tenders and City Police officers also responded swiftly.

By 11:10 a.m., the fire was completely doused, and the affected rake was evacuated according to procedures. The fire originated at the end portion of the coach. An inquiry will be conducted to determine the cause of the fire.

Despite the incident, the same rake will be used to run the Visakhapatnam-Kadapa Tirumala Express, scheduled to depart from Visakhapatnam junction at 2 p.m. Railway officials assured that the Tirumala Express would not be affected as the damaged coach would be replaced with another.