Train operations on the affected route near Tiruvallur railway station have resumed after a diesel-laden freight train caught fire on Sunday, disrupting services across the Chennai-Arakkonam section, Southern Railway confirmed on Monday.
The Up Slow line was reopened for traffic at 12:47 am, with the Erode-Chennai Yercaud Express becoming the first train to pass the site at around 3 am. Restoration efforts on other affected lines are still ongoing, railway officials said.
The fire, which broke out in the last three wagons of the freight train, led to the suspension of all EMU local train services as a precautionary measure. Additionally, power to the Overhead Equipment (OHE) was switched off to prevent further damage.
Following the blaze, Southern Railway issued emergency helpline numbers to assist passengers affected by the disruption.
Local authorities, including the district administration and fire services, were mobilised quickly. Tiruvallur District Collector M Prathap stated that over 40 bogies were safely detached from the burning train and nearby residents were evacuated to safety. Relief efforts, including the provision of basic necessities, were initiated for those displaced.
“Fire has almost been brought under control. Fire teams from neighbouring cities and districts were mobilised. The situation is being closely monitored,” said Prathap.
Southern Railway urged passengers to stay updated on train schedules and changes. Several trains originating from Dr MGR Chennai Central were either delayed or cancelled in the wake of the incident.
An investigation is expected into the cause of the fire, which triggered widespread panic and disrupted operations in a key railway corridor.