Freight Train Fuel Wagon Catches Fire Near Tiruvallur Railway Station, Several Train Services Cancelled

A freight train carrying fuel caught fire near Tiruvallur railway station, resulting in several long-distance and suburban services being cancelled. Fire and rescue services personnel worked to extinguish the fire for over two hours, and overhead power supply for electric trains was cut off as a precaution. Five wagons were damaged in the fire, and restoration work is underway. Eight long-distance trains and several express trains were cancelled or diverted, causing hardships for passengers. Helpline numbers have been announced for passengers.

A significant incident occurred on July 13, 2025, near Tiruvallur railway station in Tamil Nadu, where a freight train carrying fuel caught fire. The fire, which lasted for over two hours, resulted in the cancellation of several long-distance and suburban train services, causing significant disruptions and inconvenience to passengers.

According to reports, the fire was contained by fire and rescue services personnel, who worked diligently despite the challenges posed by the highly inflammable fuel. The overhead power supply for electric trains was temporarily cut off as a safety precaution, further delaying the restoration of normal train operations [1].

The incident resulted in the damage of five wagons, with the fire spreading rapidly due to the nature of the fuel being transported. The Southern Railway, which operates in the region, issued a press release stating that a total of eight long-distance trains, including the Vande Bharat (20607) to Mysuru and the Kovai Express (12675), were fully cancelled. Additionally, eight express trains bound to the city from various destinations were short-terminated at Tiruvallur, while five express trains were diverted via the Gudur section [1].

The suburban train services on the west section from Arakkonam and Tiruvallur were also stopped, with services only operating from Avadi. Egattur, a designated halt railway station, which serves as a transport hub for freight and passenger trains, was significantly impacted by the incident [1].

The railway authority has announced helpline numbers for passengers to assist with travel arrangements and updates on the situation. The numbers are 044-25354151 and 044-24354995 [1].

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and authorities are working to restore normal train operations as soon as possible. The incident underscores the importance of safety measures and the need for efficient emergency response systems in handling such high-risk situations.

References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/wagon-of-a-freight-train-carrying-fuel-catches-fire-near-tiruvallur-railway-station/article69806579.ece
[2] https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/massive-fire-erupts-on-goods-train-carrying-diesel-in-tamil-nadu-8866971
[3] https://www.thenewsminute.com/tamil-nadu/diesel-laden-goods-train-catches-fire-near-tamil-nadus-tiruvallur