Fatehgarh Sahib (Punjab), October 18, 2025 — Panic gripped passengers aboard the Amritsar–Saharsa Garib Rath Express (Train No. 12204) on Saturday morning after a massive fire broke out in one of its air-conditioned coaches near Sirhind railway station in Punjab.
According to officials from the Railway Board, the incident occurred around 7:30 a.m., when smoke was first noticed billowing from coach G-19. The reason behind the fire is yet to be determined, though authorities suspect an electrical malfunction or short circuit as a possible cause.
Eyewitnesses said that as soon as passengers noticed the smoke, a quick-thinking traveller pulled the emergency chain, bringing the train to a halt near Sirhind. The Government Railway Police (GRP) and railway staff immediately swung into action, ensuring that all passengers were safely evacuated from the affected coach.
“The fire quickly engulfed one AC coach, with minor damage spreading to two adjoining compartments,” a GRP official told News agencies. “Fortunately, the passengers acted promptly, which helped prevent a major tragedy.”
Fire tenders were rushed to the spot from nearby stations, and the situation was brought under control after a swift operation. The affected coaches were detached from the main train to prevent the flames from spreading further.
Railway officials confirmed that one person sustained minor injuries, and no casualties have been reported so far. “The injured passenger received first aid on the spot and is now out of danger,” said a Railway Board spokesperson.
The train, which runs between Amritsar (Punjab) and Saharsa (Bihar), resumed its journey after the damaged compartments were isolated and safety inspections were completed.
Authorities have launched a detailed probe to identify the cause of the fire. The Railway Board and GRP are reviewing the incident to strengthen safety protocols on long-distance trains, particularly those equipped with electrical AC systems.
This incident has once again raised concerns about railway safety and emergency preparedness on premium and express trains across India. Despite repeated assurances from the Ministry of Railways, sporadic incidents of fires, technical glitches, and maintenance lapses continue to surface, prompting calls for stricter monitoring and timely upgrades of onboard systems.
For now, the quick response by passengers and local officials helped avert what could have been a major disaster.
| *Press Trust of India (PTI)*
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