Ratlam: A tense situation unfolded in Madhya Pradesh’s Ratlam district early Sunday after a fire broke out in one of the air-conditioned coaches of the Thiruvananthapuram–Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express, prompting swift action by railway authorities.
The incident occurred at around 5:15 am in the Kota railway division when smoke and flames were noticed in the B-1 coach of the premium train. At the time of the incident, the compartment was carrying 68 passengers.
Railway officials immediately activated emergency safety protocols to prevent the situation from escalating. The affected coach was quickly detached from the rest of the train, while overhead electric power supply in the area was shut down as a precautionary measure.
All passengers travelling in the coach were safely evacuated without panic, and officials confirmed that no injuries or casualties were reported.
According to railway authorities, passengers were shifted to alternate coaches so that their onward journey could continue without major disruption. Officials also said an additional coach would be attached at Kota station to compensate for the removed compartment and restore seating capacity.
Senior railway officers reached the site soon after the incident to monitor rescue and restoration work. Fire control measures were carried out promptly, ensuring the blaze remained confined to the single coach.
Officials have launched an investigation to determine the exact reason behind the fire. Technical teams are examining whether the incident was caused by an electrical malfunction, equipment failure or another mechanical issue.
The quick response of railway staff and emergency teams has been widely appreciated, as their timely intervention ensured passenger safety and prevented what could have turned into a far more serious accident.
Train services on the route were not significantly affected, and the Rajdhani resumed its scheduled movement after necessary arrangements were completed.
