The Commissioner of Rail Safety and forensic experts have begun investigations into the fire that broke out in the AC compartment of the Bangalore-Nanded Express on Saturday morning.
Divisional Railway Manager Anil Kumar Aggarwal said, “As the bogie is completely charred, it is difficult to ascertain the cause of the fire without conducting tests. The Commissioner of Rail Safety and forensic experts are trying to ascertain the cause.”
A Railway official surmised that the fire might have been caused by a short circuit. “Even a carelessly-thrown cigarette butt could have started it. It might take at least a week for the forensic reports to come and only then can the exact cause be ascertained.”
During his visit to Victoria Hospital, Railway Minister Mallikarjun Kharge termed the incident as unfortunate. “This is the first such incident this year. Senior officials think a short circuit might have caused the fire. A team from the Civil Aviation Department and another team under the Rail Safety Commissioner are investigating to find out the real cause of fire and are likely to submit their findings in eight days,” the Minister said. He added that the investigations would reveal if there was any negligence on the part of Railway personnel or passengers.