Two Coaches Gutted as Fire Breaks Out on Tatanagar–Ernakulam Super Fast Express in Andhra Pradesh

A fire broke out in two coaches of the Tatanagar-Ernakulam Junction Super Fast Express during the early hours of Monday, December 29, triggering panic but with officials maintaining that there were no confirmed casualties.

The incident took place near Yelamanchili railway station in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh, prompting an immediate emergency response.

Fire breaks out near Yelamanchili station

The blaze was reported at around 1.11 am on Train No. 18189 while it was passing near Yelamanchili railway station in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. According to officials from South Central Railway, two coaches were affected in the incident.

Coach numbers B-1 and M-2 were engulfed in flames and suffered extensive damage. Railway authorities said the fire was noticed by staff on board, who quickly raised an alarm and informed emergency services.

Emergency response and firefighting operation

Soon after the alert, fire department teams were rushed to the location. A couple of fire tenders reached the site and worked to control the blaze, continuing operations until the fire was fully extinguished. Officials on the ground said the response was swift, helping prevent the fire from spreading to other coaches.

Railway staff also ensured that passengers were moved to safety while firefighting efforts were underway.

Conflicting reports on casualties

While initial statements from railway officials ruled out any loss of life, unconfirmed sources claimed that one person may have been charred to death in the incident. Authorities have said these reports are yet to be verified and that confirmation would only come after a detailed assessment.

Senior railway officials arrived at the spot soon after the incident and are closely monitoring the situation. Both damaged coaches have been detached from the train as a precautionary measure.

Investigation underway to determine cause

A senior official present at the site said, "the fire was huge," adding that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause of the blaze and to ascertain whether there were any casualties. Railway authorities have said further details will be shared once the inquiry progresses.