The train was travelling from Randfontein to Johannesburg when it caught fire between Bosmont and Maraisburg stations shortly after 6pm last night.
According to a social media statement issued by Metrorail Gauteng, the train caught fire at approximately 6.10pm due to a faulty cable.
Emergency services were called immediately and within minutes members from Johannesburg Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were on scene to fight the fire.
Read the initial article here: Train fire breaks out near Maraisburg station
Despite claims that debris had fallen into the road and slowed traffic, Johannesburg Metro Police Department’s (JMPD) Superintendent Wayne Minaar stated that the debris “was hanging from the bridge” and that “nothing had fallen into the road.”
He maintained that traffic was only slow due to the fact that motorists were curious about the fire on the tracks above them.
According to the EMS spokesperson, Robert Mulaudzi, the fire department was on scene shortly after the train caught fire to fight the blaze.
“We arrived on scene and began fighting the fire immediately and managed to extinguish the fire by about 7pm,” Mulaudzi said.
He further stated that “the rail officials had detached the other carriages from those burning to avoid spreading the fire.”
The fire burnt its way through two carriages and caused an estimated R4,5million worth of damage.
No injuries to any passengers, crew, or motorists below the bridge were reported.
The train had been moved from the site by 8.30/ 8.45pm so that inspection of the scene could commence.
Damage to the tracks was not severe and work to repair the lines and get them up and running for morning services began immediately after the train had been moved.
According to Metrorail’s Facebook page, the line had been repaired and was reinstated by 6am this morning.
Burning Train earlier tonight at Maraisburg N1! pic.twitter.com/w0i9veflcf
— Angels… Emergency…Dispatch …. Team (@emergancy_task) May 8, 2018
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