Two Train Coaches Catch Fire on Tatanagar–Ernakulam Express; One Passenger Dies

Visakhapatnam/Anakapalli, Andhra Pradesh — A fire broke out in two coaches of the Tatanagar–Ernakulam Express (Train No. 18189) in the early hours of Monday, leaving one passenger dead and prompting an emergency evacuation, railway officials said.

The incident occurred around 12:45 a.m. near Yalamanchili railway station, about 66 km from Visakhapatnam, while the train was en route from Tatanagar to Ernakulam. Flames reportedly erupted in the B1 AC coach and quickly spread to the adjacent M1/M2 and B2 coaches, all located close to the pantry car.

Casualties and Evacuation

Railway and police officials confirmed that there were 82 passengers in one affected coach and 76 in the other when the fire began, totalling 158 passengers in the two bogies. 

Tragically, 70‑year‑old Chandrasekhar Sundaram, a resident of Vijayawada, was charred to death inside the B1 coach after being unable to escape before the fire engulfed it.

The loco pilot noticed flames early and immediately brought the train to a halt near the station, enabling most passengers to evacuate safely. Railway staff and local emergency services were quick to respond, detaching the burning compartments to prevent further spread.

Damage and Rescue Efforts

Both affected coaches were completely gutted, according to authorities, who said the prompt action of the crew and swift evacuation likely prevented additional casualties. Fire service personnel brought the blaze under control shortly after arrival.

The remaining part of the train was later allowed to continue its journey toward Ernakulam after the damaged coaches were detached. Passengers from the destroyed coaches were reportedly assisted with alternative transport arrangements to reach their destinations.

Investigation Underway

Forensic teams and senior railway officials have reached the site to investigate the cause of the fire, which is still unknown. Early speculation suggests the blaze started inside the B1 coach before spreading to the neighbouring compartments.

Rail services on the route were briefly disrupted, but traffic has since been regulated and resumed under the supervision of the South Central Railway division. 

While railway accidents involving fires are rare, incidents such as this raise questions about onboard safety protocols, early detection systems, and fire management readiness on long‑distance trains. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to completing investigations and implementing any recommended safety improvements.