Chaos erupted aboard the Thiruvananthapuram-Hazrat Nizamuddin Rajdhani Express after a devastating fire broke out near Kota, reducing passengers’ belongings to ashes and leaving many traumatized. Travelers have strongly criticized the railway administration for what they describe as a complete breakdown in emergency response. According to accounts, the fire began near the coach entrance, and despite repeated attempts to pull the chain, the alarm failed to activate. With smoke quickly filling the compartment, passengers had no option but to jump out, sustaining injuries in the process. A woman passenger recalled how she had to plead for water and medicine, only to be told that everything would be available in Kota. Another traveler mentioned that even the fire brigade arrived without water, forcing villagers to step in and help douse the flames. While the railways have provided immediate relief of ₹5,000 per passenger and arranged for food and additional coaches, several affected individuals have decided to remain in Kota to file formal complaints. The incident has reignited concerns about passenger safety and the effectiveness of fire prevention systems on premium trains.
