Fire on Tata Nagar–Ernakulam Express Kills 70-Year-Old Passenger in Andhra Pradesh
A 70-year-old man lost his life after a massive fire broke out in two air-conditioned coaches of the Tata Nagar–Ernakulam Express in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district early Monday morning. While several passengers managed to escape in time, the blaze gutted two coaches completely, destroying all belongings inside.
The incident occurred in the early hours around 1.30 am near Duvvada, shortly after the train crossed the area while heading towards Ernakulam from Tatanagar via Visakhapatnam.
Fire Breaks Out in AC Coaches Near Pantry Car
Railway officials said flames first appeared in the B1 and M2 AC coaches, which were positioned next to the pantry car. Loco pilots noticed smoke and fire near a railway point close to Yelamanchili and immediately alerted authorities.
The crew brought the train to a halt at Duvvada station, but the fire spread rapidly before fire services could arrive. Within minutes, the flames engulfed both coaches, leaving them completely charred.
Panic as Smoke Fills Compartments
As thick smoke filled the coaches, panic broke out among passengers. Many rushed out onto the platform in confusion, unsure of what was happening in the dark. Railway staff assisted passengers in evacuating the train and ensured that no one remained trapped in other compartments.
Railway officials confirmed that all passengers were evacuated safely, except for one elderly man who could not escape in time.
Victim Identified as Vijayawada Resident
The deceased has been identified as Chandrasekhar Sundar (70), a resident of Vijayawada. Officials said he remained trapped inside the B1 AC coach and suffered fatal burn injuries.
His death has raised concerns over emergency response time and fire safety measures in long-distance trains.
Suspected Brake Overheating May Have Triggered Fire
Preliminary findings suggest that overheating of brakes in the B1 AC coach may have sparked the fire. Railway sources said sparks and flames were noticed near Narsingaballi soon after the train departed Anakapalli, pointing to a possible mechanical failure.
Authorities have not ruled out other causes and said a detailed inquiry will establish the exact reason behind the blaze.
Firefighters Battle Blaze for Hours
Firefighting teams from Anakapalli, Elamanchili, and Nakkapalli rushed to the spot and worked for several hours to bring the fire under control. Despite their efforts, the two AC coaches suffered total damage, and passengers lost all personal belongings kept inside.
Senior railway officials reached the station to assess the situation, supervise relief measures, and ensure passenger safety. As a precaution, ambulances remained stationed at the site.
Train Arrives Four Hours Late, Passengers Stranded Overnight
The Tata Nagar–Ernakulam Express reached Anakapalli nearly four hours late. In the cold night, hundreds of passengers waited at the station for hours as officials managed the aftermath and arranged further movement.
The incident has once again highlighted the need for stronger fire safety systems and faster emergency response on India’s long-distance trains.
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