A Bodinayakkanur-bound express train derailed on Thursday, Southern Railway officials reported. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning when one wheel of the Chennai Central–Bodinayakkanur Express (Train No. 20601) derailed as it was shunting away from Madurai Junction. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the incident did not disrupt other train services at the busy Madurai station.
According to an official release by the Southern Railway, the affected wheel belonged to the Second Class, Luggage, Guard cum Physically Challenged (LSLRD) coach positioned right next to the engine. The derailment took place at 07:36 a.m. The coach was subsequently detached from the train to ensure passenger safety and maintain operational efficiency.
After quick re-railing and coach detachment operations, the express train resumed its journey at 9:28 a.m. Despite the incident, the train was able to complete its route, reaching Bodinayakkanur, about 550 kilometres from Chennai, with a delay of 89 minutes.
The Southern Railway highlighted that safety measures were immediately activated, with officials working swiftly to prevent disruption to other scheduled train services at Madurai Junction. The re-railing operations were executed promptly, showcasing the Railway’s preparedness for handling such incidents with minimal impact on passenger services.
No passengers were affected, and normalcy was restored shortly afterwards. Southern Railway assured the public of its commitment to passenger safety and operational reliability, stating that further inspections would be conducted to prevent similar occurrences in the future.