Burgas, Bulgaria — A potentially catastrophic fire erupted on the Sofia-Burgas express train, originating from the locomotive, at the “Vladimir Pavlov” railway station in Burgas on Wednesday afternoon.
Prompt and decisive action by the train driver and emergency responders ensured the safety of all passengers and averted a major disaster.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:05 p.m., when the locomotive of the express train, carrying 80 passengers, caught fire near the entrance signal of the “Vladimir Pavlov” station in the western part of Burgas.
Authorities were alerted at 14:59 through the emergency number 112, and immediate steps were taken to address the situation.
The fire reportedly started in an undercarriage fan of the locomotive, likely due to high temperatures at the brake which ignited the cables powering the fan, according to transport accident expert Zhelyazko Zhelyazkov. The train driver, noticing smoke and flames emanating from the locomotive, promptly stopped the train and utilized a powder fire extinguisher to tackle the blaze.
Emergency services responded swiftly to the call. Two fire engines and six firefighters were dispatched to the scene.
Their quick intervention, along with the activation of the train’s fire protection system and the use of three additional fire extinguishers, ensured that the fire was brought under control in a timely manner.
“The rapid response by the train driver and the fire brigade was crucial in preventing what could have been a much more serious incident,” Zhelyazkov remarked, highlighting the importance of immediate action in such emergencies.
Bulgarian Railways (BDZ) confirmed that all 80 passengers on board were safely evacuated and transported by buses, with no injuries reported. The swift and coordinated response of the train crew and firefighters ensured that the passengers were kept safe and calm throughout the ordeal.
The fire engines and firefighters returned to the Regional Office “Fire Safety and Protection of the Population” in Burgas after ensuring that the fire was completely extinguished and the area was secure.
The locomotive, which sustained damage from the fire, will be replaced to ensure the safety and integrity of the train service.
The National Company “Railway Infrastructure” reported that efforts are underway to replace the burning locomotive, and the train is expected to resume its journey shortly.
Passengers will be able to continue their travel with minimal delay, thanks to the efficient handling of the incident.
This incident underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and the readiness of emergency services to respond to unexpected situations.
The professionalism and quick thinking demonstrated by all involved played a pivotal role in ensuring a safe outcome for everyone on board.
As investigations continue to determine the exact cause of the fire, this event serves as a reminder of the critical role of safety measures and the need for continuous vigilance in the operation of public transportation services.
The coordination between Bulgarian Railways, emergency responders, and the train crew exemplifies the effectiveness of well-executed emergency response plans.
In conclusion, the fire on the Sofia-Burgas express train was swiftly and effectively managed, thanks to the prompt actions of the train driver and firefighters, ensuring the safety of all passengers and the continuity of their journey.