3 Coaches Of Taj Express Train Catch Fire In Delhi's Sarita Vihar, Passengers Unhurt

A blaze erupted in three coaches of the Jhansi-bound Taj Express train in southeast Delhi's Sarita Vihar between Okhla and Tughlakabad railway stations.

A fire broke out in three coaches of the Jhansi-bound Taj Express train in southeast Delhi's Sarita Vihar on Monday, resulting in significant damage but no injuries, officials confirmed. The incident occurred shortly after the train departed from New Delhi Railway Station at 3 pm. The blaze erupted between Okhla and Tughlakabad railway stations. Passengers managed to escape unharmed as the train was brought to an immediate halt.

"We received a call at 4.24 pm regarding the fire in three coaches of the Taj Express train. Eight fire tenders were pressed into service, and the fire was put out by 5.43 pm," a Delhi Fire Services (DFS) official said, as per news agency PTI.

The affected coaches, identified as D3 and D4, were completely gutted, while D2 sustained partial damage. All three were general chair car coaches. Eyewitnesses described huge flames and billowing black smoke as firefighters worked to contain the blaze.

Taj Express Fire: Passengers Recount Harrowing Experiences, Probe Launched

Passengers recounted their harrowing experiences. "We heard people screaming about a fire and had to run to safety. As the train was moving, some passengers immediately pulled the emergency chain. The train halted immediately, and we de-boarded to save our lives," a passenger told reporters, as per PTI.

A guard on the train checked the compartments to ensure no one was left inside, and firefighters quickly arrived on the scene. As per PTI, a senior police officer stated, "We received a call about the fire at around 4.40 pm. Police personnel rushed to the spot near Apollo Hospital."

Railway officials have initiated an investigation to determine the cause of the fire, involving forensic science experts to assist the probe. "We have launched an investigation to know the actual reason behind the fire," said a senior police officer.

The train, which was running approximately 10 hours late, began its journey from New Delhi Railway Station at 3 pm.