India: Fatal fire breaks out in Madurai tourist train, 10 lives lost and rescues underway

A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in the early hours of Saturday as a fire ravaged a tourist train parked on Bodi Lane near Madurai railway station. The scene has been described as a horrific disaster, with ten lives tragically lost and over 20 individuals sustaining injuries. The calamity was reportedly triggered by a passenger’s attempt to use a gas stove for making coffee.

Fatal Fire Claims Lives and Causes Injuries: According to the report by news agency PTI, a tourist train became engulfed in flames, leading to the loss of ten lives and leaving more than 20 people injured. The victims’ bodies have been respectfully transferred to the Government Rajaji Hospital in Madurai. As the gravity of the situation becomes apparent, ongoing rescue operations are underway at the site of the incident.

Tragic Series of Events: The unfortunate fire outbreak was sparked when a passenger attempted to use a gas stove to prepare coffee within the confines of the train. Using the gas stove inadvertently led to a chain reaction of events that resulted in the devastating inferno.

Authorities and Rescue Efforts: Madurai District Collector MS Sangeetha provided insights into the incident, sharing that the distressing event occurred at approximately 5:30 a.m. The coach, which had stopped at Madurai railway station, was carrying pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh. The passengers’ attempt to light the gas stove ended in tragedy as the gas cylinder exploded, engulfing the coach in flames. In the wake of the incident, rescue operations have been initiated to ensure any survivors’ safety and assist those injured.

Heartfelt Condolences and Ongoing Investigation: As the city of Madurai grapples with the shock of the tragedy, condolences pour in for the victims and their families. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to safety measures and exercising caution in confined spaces. An investigation will likely shed further light on the sequence of events and the specific circumstances that led to this devastating outcome.

As the community mourns the lives lost and prays for the recovery of the injured, this unfortunate incident serves as a sad reminder of the significance of vigilance and preparedness in avoiding such catastrophic incidents in the future.