26 killed as train catches fire in Andhra

Hyderabad, Dec 28: Twenty-six passengers, including two children, were feared killed and several others were injured as Nanded-Bangalore Express caught

in Anantapur district of

early Saturday, officials said.

The mishap took place at Kothacheruvu railway station in Anantapur district bordering Karnataka, officials said.

Bangalore helplines: 080 2235 4108, 080 2225 9271, 080 2215 6554

The fire broke out in the D1 AC coach and spread to the adjoining coach. Fire engines and ambulances were rushed to the spot.

According to witnesses, rescue workers retrieved eight bodies. The injured were shifted to Dharmavaram, Puttaparthi and Anantapur hospitals. As many as 57 passengers were travelling in D1 coach and majority of them were believed to be from Karnataka.

Many passengers got down after pulling the chain. Short circuit is believed to have led to the fire.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed shock and grief over the loss of lives in the Andhra train accident.

IANS