The riders of Kolkata metro railway had a providential escape after smoke was detected inside an air-conditioned coach of the Kolkata Metro.
At least 20 people were taken ill and 17 of them were admitted to Calcutta Medical College and SSKM Hospital with nerve and breathing problems after they were rescued from inside the coach that stood still some 200 metres away inside the tunnel.
The incident happened at the Maidan Station. “We were travelling from New Garia to Dum Dum when seconds before entering Maidan station we heard a huge sound and watched flame-like things outside. Then the entire AC coach was filled with fume and we could not even breathe,” said a passenger.
Another passenger said that the windows had literally to be broken to get some relief and the rescuers only came after 30-45 minutes after the incident was noticed. “Frantic calls to the authorities yielded no answers,” angry passengers said.
“There could have been some fire and there was smoke. But our men immediately swung into action dousing them and it might have taken some time for them to enter the tunnel because they were taking all precautions. But the entire thing will be inquired into,” Metro Railway CPRO said.
The fire was doused by the Metro staff using water from fire hydrants.
West Bengal Fire Service and Kolkata Police Disaster Management group are attending, the Kolkata Metro subsequently tweeted.