Train evacuated at West Malling railway station after fire on board

Shocking footage of the moment a train bursts into flames.

Frightened passengers tumble from service at West Malling railway station as sparks fly from the blaze below.

The train and platform were evacuated this afternoon when thick smoke billowed from the carriage.

Those arriving tonight have been warned to expect disruption until 8.30pm.

It meant the lines between Swanley and Ashford International were blocked.

Footage taken by eyewitnesses shows sparks flying from the flame beneath the carriage.

Passengers can be seen scrambling for safety as they exit the service.

A fire service spokesman confirmed that crews were called to West Malling station at Station Approach just after 4pm after reports of a fire under a train compartment.

“Five fire engines and a foam unit were dispatched to the scene, where crews used dry powder to put out a small fire,” they said.

“The incident has now been reduced to two fire engines.

“The train and the surrounding area were evacuated as a precaution, but no injuries were reported.

“People traveling on the affected railway line are likely to experience delays. Please follow the Southeastern Railway for travel updates.”

Trains could not run between Otford and Maidstone East.

However, an update from Southeastern just before 8 p.m. said the train had been evacuated and Network Rail employees were inspecting the route.

The 7.55pm Victoria to Ashford was to run via Maidstone East as usual.

The 19:27 train from Ashford to Victoria is running normally.

A limited shuttle service operated between Maidstone East and Ashford – and services were diverted or canceled via Paddock Wood.

Southeastern said that power to the route on both lines had previously been shut down for safety reasons.

A spokesman for the company said: “We have been informed of a fire on board a train in West Malling.

“Power to the track has been shut off on both lines for safety reasons.

“Emergency personnel are on site and the passengers have been evacuated from the train.

“The fire has been extinguished but the train is currently unable to move and is blocking the track, maintenance personnel are investigating.”