A routine train journey from Varna to Sofia took a dramatic turn shortly after 1 p.m. today when the locomotive of the fast train caught fire near Kaloyanovets station in southern Bulgaria. The incident prompted swift action from train personnel and railway authorities, averting what could have been a major disaster.
According to the Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ), smoke was detected in the engine compartment of the locomotive while the train was en route between Stara Zagora and Kaloyanovets. Passengers aboard the train began noticing the smoke, and alerted conductors who quickly initiated an emergency stop and evacuation.
Approximately 190 people were onboard at the time. All passengers were safely escorted off the train and led to a nearby field as a precautionary measure. No injuries were reported.
Witnesses described the scene as tense but orderly. “We saw smoke coming from the front of the train, and the staff told us to evacuate immediately. Everyone remained calm, but we were all quite shaken,” said one passenger traveling to Sofia.
In response to the fire, power to the railway line was shut off to prevent further risk, and emergency personnel were dispatched to the scene. The train has remained stationary at the location since early afternoon.
BDZ released a statement confirming the incident and detailing the actions taken. “The smoke was detected in the engine compartment of the locomotive. As a precaution, all passengers were evacuated and emergency protocols were followed. We are working to resume transportation services as quickly as possible,” the company said.
Efforts to provide assistance to the stranded passengers began immediately. BDZ announced that an alternative electric train would be dispatched to pick up those affected. The company also stated that passengers would be provided with mineral water while they waited for the replacement transport.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and maintenance of the state-run railway service, which has faced criticism in recent years for aging infrastructure and underinvestment. However, in this case, the quick action of the train staff was widely praised.
Transport authorities are now investigating the cause of the fire. Preliminary indications suggest it originated in the engine compartment, but further analysis will be required to determine the exact reason.
The section of the railway line affected by the incident remains temporarily closed as fire and maintenance crews assess the damage and ensure it is safe for operations to resume.
For now, passengers continue their journey under alternative arrangements, grateful for their safety despite the disruption.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members