Train catches fire with commuters inside

A train caught fire at the Van Der Stel railway station in Somerset West at about 3.45pm on Thursday.

Image result for Somerset West burnt train

The City’s Fire and Rescue Service urgently responded to the call, sending two firefighting appliances, a rescue vehicle and 12 staff members to the scene, according to Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson Jermaine Carelse.

“The swift response from both Somerset West and Strand fire crews led to the fire being contained to two carriages. No injuries have been reported,” he said.

Metrorail spokesperson Riana Scott said two train carriages, part of train number 3219 en route to Strand, caught fire.

“The incident impacts all inbound/outbound Strand trains that are forced to terminate at Firgrove Station until further notice. Commuters are advised to make alternative transport arrangements between Firgrove and Strand,” she said.

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“Mop-up operations will commence after the train has been moved to the depot and safety tests have been conducted to assess whether underlying or overhead infrastructure suffered damage as a result of the fire.

“The cost of the damage will only be confirmed once Prasa’s loss adjusters have assessed the carriages.”

Cape Town-bound train from Strand caught the wildfire between Melton Rose and Blackheath stations, with one motor coach being affected.

Two commuters sustained minor injuries after being forced to jump from the train.

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