Diesel-laden train catches fire near Chennai, disrupts rail services

A train carrying fuel from Chennai Port caught fire early Sunday morning in Tiruvallur, Tamil Nadu, after reportedly derailing. Several fire engines were rushed to the scene to control the blaze and detach the four burning compartments from the rest of the train.

While no casualties have been reported, the incident has disrupted rail traffic on the Arakkonam line, affecting several trains to and from Chennai.

"Due to a fire incident near Tiruvallur, overhead power has been switched off as a safety measure. This has led to changes in train operations," Southern Railway said in a tweet, advising passengers to check for updates before travelling.

General Manager RN Singh said services are expected to resume by 3:30 pm, though trains heading toward Chennai may face delays of up to five hours.

As a precaution, nearby residents were evacuated and household LPG cylinders were removed from the area.

Authorities warned residents to avoid the area while the fire was being contained after images from the scene showed dense smoke rising into the sky.