A major train accident was narrowly avoided at Dakshineswar railway station in Kolkata on Wednesday night after an overhead electric (OHE) wire snapped and fell onto a local train, triggering heavy sparks and thick smoke that caused panic among passengers.
The incident occurred at around 8:50 p.m., when the Dankuni–Sealdah down local train came to a halt after the overhead equipment developed a fault. Dramatic visuals from the station showed bright flashes of sparks and smoke erupting as the live wire came into contact with the train.
Despite the frightening scene, no injuries were reported. Railway officials said the train’s metallic body acted like a Faraday cage, preventing electric current from passing through passengers inside the coaches.
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As a precaution, railway authorities immediately cut off the power supply and suspended train services on the affected route. Emergency response teams and railway engineers rushed to the spot and began restoration work.
A tower wagon was deployed to repair the damaged overhead wire, while officials carried out safety checks before restoring operations. Train movement on both lines remained suspended for several hours as repair work continued late into the night.
The disruption affected local train services on the route, and passengers were advised to remain patient while restoration efforts were underway.
Railway authorities are yet to disclose what caused the overhead electric wire to snap. An investigation into the incident is expected.