Tiruvallur (Tamil Nadu), July 13, 2025 –
In a major incident early Sunday morning, a goods train carrying diesel caught fire near Tiruvallur, causing significant disruptions to train services across Tamil Nadu. Authorities have rushed emergency teams to the scene, and fire control operations are currently underway.
Thick Smoke, High Flames: Panic at the Tracks
Eyewitnesses reported large flames and dense black smoke billowing from one of the diesel tankers attached to the freight train. The intensity of the fire triggered immediate safety protocols, including the shutdown of overhead electrical power in the affected section of the railway track.
Train Services Hit: Major Disruptions at Chennai Central
Due to the incident, Southern Railway has announced a series of cancellations and reschedulings affecting passengers across the state. Several trains departing from Dr MGR Chennai Central Railway Station have either been delayed, diverted, or cancelled entirely.
Affected Trains Include:
- Dr MGR Chennai Central – Nagarsol Express
- Brindavan Superfast Express (Chennai Central – KSR Bengaluru)
- Double Decker Express (Chennai Central – KSR Bengaluru)
- Saptagiri Express (Chennai Central – Tirupati)
- Chennai Central – Coimbatore Shatabdi Express
- Chennai Central – Kovai Superfast Express
- Vande Bharat Express (Chennai Central – Mysuru)
Southern Railway advised passengers to check real-time updates before proceeding with travel plans.
Emergency Response Underway
Railway officials, fire department teams, and safety personnel are on-site, working tirelessly to extinguish the fire and ensure no casualties or further escalation. “The situation is under control, and no injuries have been reported so far,” confirmed a senior railway official.
Official Statement from Southern Railway
“Due to a fire incident near Tiruvallur, overhead power has been switched off as a safety measure. This has led to changes in train operations. Passengers are advised to check the latest updates before travel,” said the Southern Railway in a formal press release.
Public Advisory
All commuters, especially those traveling from Chennai and towards Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Mysuru, or Nagarsol, are urged to verify train statuses through official railway portals, helpline numbers, or mobile apps before reaching the station.
A Wake-Up Call on Rail Safety
This incident has reignited discussions about fuel safety protocols, particularly when transporting hazardous materials like diesel on major rail corridors. Investigations into the cause of the fire are expected to begin once the flames are fully contained.