A Rangpur-bound train has caught fire after its oil tanker burst following a derailment in Sirajganj injuring at least 20 people.

The Rangpur Express train caught fire at the district’s Ullapara upazila on Thursday (Nov 14) around 2 pm, confirmed railway ministry public relations officer Shariful Alam.

He said that two power cars, one air-conditioned and one chair coach carriage were derailed.

The accident has caused all rail communication between Dhaka and the northern districts to be suspended.

Railway Ministry Secretary Md Mofazzel Hossain admitted to Bangla Tribune that, lack of pointing signall was the cause behind Rangpur Express's derailment. 

He also said that an enquiry committee has been formed and they would identify the reasons behind the accident.
The relief train has already started from Ishwardi but it will be another four hours before train services resume.

Bangla Tribune’s Sirajganj correspondent, citing Ullapara Health Complex and Fire Service employees reported that at least 20 passengers have been injured in the accident but any death is yet to be reported.

Station Master Rafiqul Islam said that the train left for Ishwardi from Ullapara but seven carriages along with the engine derailed immediately as it crossed the main platform.

He added that they are looking into whether there was any negligence on the lineman’s part.

Pakshi Divisional Railway Manager Mizanur Rahman said that a five-member probe panel has been formed to look into the accident.

He said that the panel has been ordered to submit the report within three working days and measures will be initiated if the lineman is found negligent.

The accident comes two days after a collision between two trains at Brahmanbaria’s Kasba upazila left 16 people dead and more than fifty injured.

Three probe committees, two under officials of  Bangladesh Railway and the other by the Sirajganj local administration have also been formed to enquire the accident.