Havoc over spilled fuel after train derailment in Habiganj

Chaos erupted in Madhabpur’s Montala area after a fuel-laden train derailed Wednesday night (April 1), spilling large quantities of diesel.

Locals, including women, men, and children, rushed to collect the fuel using buckets, pans, and containers.

The derailment took place around 9:30pm when five tanker carriages went off the tracks, spreading diesel over nearby fields and canals. About 500 meters of railway line were damaged, disrupting train services between Sylhet and the rest of the country.

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Acting Commander of Habiganj 55 Battalion said nearly 1,000 liters of diesel have been recovered and handed over to the authorities.

He added that controlling the crowds has been a major challenge for law enforcement.

Dhaka Division Railway Manager ABM Kamruzzaman warned locals about the risks of collecting spilled fuel, including fire hazards and accidents, and said police have been directed to maintain order.

Some residents justified the rush, saying uncollected fuel could contaminate water sources.

Meanwhile, several trains bound for Sylhet were halted at stations, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.

Authorities expect normal train operations to resume once the recovery and repair work is completed.