Luggage van of Malabar Express catches fire near Varkala; No casualties

Varkala: In an unfortunate early morning mishap, the parcel coach of Malabar Express caught fire and no casualties were reported. As per reports, two bikes inside the front luggage van near to the engine caught fire.

The fire was first noticed by the passengers of the train at about 7.47 am and they immediately pulled the chain and informed the Railway authorities. The Malabar Express was about to reach Thiruvananthapuram and was stopped near Varkala on noticing the fire.

The authorities said that the fire has been brought under control. The extent of damage is yet to be determined. The coach has been detached from the train now. All passengers have been evacuated from the train and are safe.

The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. Fire Force officials rushed to the spot.