RailEnquiry

A fire at the busy Howrah station sparked panic among passengers on Saturday afternoon.According to railway officials, at 1.45 p.m. flames were seen emanating from one portion of the railway station near the Food Plaza close to platform number 11 and 12 of the old complex. Thick smoke also engulfed certain areas of the station.

Power disconnected
Electricity supply to different parts of the station was disconnected. The automatic ticketing system and electronic display boards were switched off.The heat, the smoke, and the darkness added to the discomfort of the passengers.Three persons, who were stuck in a lift of the station, were rescued by personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF).“A number of electrical cables pass through the place where the fire broke out. Electricity in certain parts of the station was switched off, and the automatic ticketing system and the electronic display in the station didn't work for nearly an hour,” said S.K. Banerjee, senior station manager.Mr. Banerjee said there was no report of any casualty or injury.

Brought under control
Two fire engines were pressed into service and the flames brought under control within 30 minutes. Though the railways have ordered an enquiry, sources said the fire was caused by an electric short-circuit.