Traces of cracker chemicals found in TN Exp samples

Hyderabad, Aug 6: Investigations are on to probe the circumstances that led to the deadly fire in the Tamil Nadu express causing the death of 34 innocent passengers. The Andhra Pradesh Forensic Science Laboratory (APFSL) experts who were spearheading the probe have found traces of chemicals usually found in fire crackers in the samples collected from the charred bogie.

The experts at APFSL have, however, not confirmed whether the crackers are the primary reason behind the fire. Among the other evidences collected include a suitcase that was recovered under a lower berth with metal chain and two money purses in the fourth coupe adjacent to berth numbers 19-24. They also found a damaged laptop and components of a mobile phone from the middle of the coach.

After completing the investigation by the forensic team, the report of the same will be handed over to the Government Railway Police as per norms. The forensic team is led by additional director Venkateswarlu. The samples are yet to reach the APFSL in Hyderabad and the report will reach the personnel concerned within 10 days.

With rumours of a sabotage and an electrical short circuit doing the rounds, the forensic team have not given their clarification yet. Union minister of state for railways KH Muniyappa had, meanwhile, ruled out the possibility of a short circuit and the government is looking into a sabotage angle in the mishap.

Sources have claimed that the presence of chemicals in the fire could have led to the fire spreading fast and loud sounds being heard. They added, "Perhaps, the electric short-circuit might have triggered the fire. There could be many reasons for a short-circuit such as charging of a laptop or a mobile from a power point."

OneIndia News