A sudden fire outbreak in the locomotive of the Sylhet-bound intercity train, the Upaban Express, caused a nearly three-hour suspension of rail communications between Sylhet and the rest of the country on Tuesday morning. The incident occurred at approximately 6:10 a.m. in the Kalipur area, situated between the Vhanugach and Shamshernagar railway stations in Kamalganj Upazila.
Despite the alarming nature of the incident, no casualties were reported. However, the train became immobilised on the main line, leading to significant disruption for passengers and rail operations across the region.
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Sudden Blaze in Motion
According to eyewitness accounts and railway sources under Bangladesh Railway, the Upaban Express departed from Dhaka as scheduled and was continuing its journey towards Sylhet when smoke was first observed emanating from the underside of the locomotive shortly after passing Vhanugach station. Within moments, the smoke intensified into visible flames.
Recognising the danger, the train driver acted swiftly, bringing the train to an emergency halt. This rapid response is believed to have prevented the fire from spreading to passenger coaches, thereby averting what could have been a far more serious disaster.
Preliminary Cause and Response
Vhanugach stationmaster Gouraprasad Das Palash stated that the preliminary assumption points to leakage of engine lubricating oil, which may have ignited due to excessive heat generated in the locomotive’s lower section. He emphasised that a full technical investigation would be required to confirm the exact cause.
With the locomotive rendered inoperative, rail traffic along the Sylhet corridor was completely suspended. The blockage of the main line resulted in widespread disruption for several hours.
A relief engine was later dispatched from Kulaura railway station to recover the stranded train. By approximately 9:30 a.m., the disabled service was successfully removed from the track and resumed its journey towards Sylhet. Following this intervention, normal rail operations were gradually restored.
Passenger Hardship and Disruption
The incident left hundreds of passengers stranded inside the train during the early hours of the morning. Many were forced to endure prolonged delays without clear information, while others disembarked and sought alternative transport, including CNG-run auto-rickshaws and buses, to reach their destinations.
Several passengers also expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that the service had already been delayed on the previous day, raising concerns about punctuality and operational standards.
Incident Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Time of incident | 6:10 a.m., Tuesday |
| Location | Kalipur area, between Vhanugach and Shamshernagar |
| Train service | Upaban Express (Dhaka–Sylhet route) |
| Nature of incident | Engine fire |
| Preliminary cause | Suspected engine oil leakage and heat |
| Duration of disruption | Approximately 3 hours |
| Casualties | None reported |
| Recovery time | Around 9:30 a.m. |
Safety Concerns Raised
Following the incident, concerns have resurfaced regarding locomotive maintenance and operational safety standards. Authorities from Bangladesh Railway have indicated that enhanced monitoring and stricter maintenance protocols will be introduced to reduce the risk of similar occurrences in the future.
The event has once again highlighted the importance of rigorous technical inspections and timely maintenance in ensuring passenger safety and maintaining reliable rail connectivity across the country.