Diesel-Laden Freight Train Catches Fire After Derailment in Tamil Nadu, Sparks Major Rail Disruption

Massive Fire Breaks Out on Diesel-Laden Freight Train Near Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu

In a serious incident that disrupted rail traffic and triggered emergency evacuations, a massive fire broke out early Sunday morning on a freight train carrying diesel near Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu. The train, reportedly en route from Chennai’s Manali area to Jolarpet, derailed around 5:30 AM, causing multiple wagons to catch fire and spread panic in the nearby region.

The train was carrying diesel in multiple tankers, and the fire is believed to have started following a derailment which caused a leakage and subsequent ignition. Thick plumes of black smoke rose over the affected area as at least four wagons were engulfed in flames. Authorities quickly responded to the emergency with over 25 fire tenders from Tiruvallur, Chennai suburban, Kanchipuram and Chengalpet districts being rushed to the site. Firefighters worked for hours to bring the situation under control and prevent the flames from spreading to other wagons.

Emergency protocols were immediately activated. The Southern Railway cut power supply in the region to avoid any electrical hazards, while the surrounding residential areas near the Tiruvallur railway station were swiftly evacuated. Police cordoned off the affected zone and provided temporary shelters and food arrangements for those displaced. Around 47 other wagons of the train were successfully detached to isolate the fire-affected sections and minimize further risk.

Fortunately, despite the intensity of the fire, no injuries or casualties have been reported so far. The timely response by railway authorities and local administration played a key role in ensuring public safety. Rail services in the region, however, were heavily impacted. Several long-distance trains were cancelled, diverted or short-terminated, disrupting the travel plans of hundreds of passengers. The Chennai–Arakkonam line, one of the busiest routes in the state, remained suspended as a precautionary measure while authorities worked to assess and repair the damage.

Investigations are currently underway to determine the exact cause of the derailment and the subsequent fire. Preliminary reports indicate a possible technical fault in the wagons, but railway officials have stated that a detailed probe will be conducted by the Commissioner of Railway Safety. Until the cause is officially established, questions around fuel handling protocols and safety checks are likely to arise, especially considering the hazardous nature of the cargo.

The incident comes at a time when Indian Railways has been focusing on enhancing freight services and operational safety. This fire raises renewed concerns about the preparedness to handle flammable cargo and the need for stricter compliance with safety norms.

For now, the fire has been largely brought under control, and efforts to clear the debris and resume normal operations are ongoing. Commuters have been advised to check with official railway channels for updates on rescheduled and diverted services. The Southern Railway and Tamil Nadu government have assured that all necessary steps are being taken to restore operations and ensure public safety.

A major fire erupted on a freight train transporting diesel near Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu, early Sunday morning. The incident, triggered by a derailment, led to a massive blaze affecting four wagons, disrupted rail traffic, and caused evacuation of nearby areas. No injuries have been reported and the situation is now under control. Investigations are ongoing, and restoration of train services is underway. The event has once again brought railway safety standards into the spotlight, particularly in the transportation of hazardous materials.