Irish train fire causes 100 passengers to disembark

Around 100 customers on board were detrained and brought to a level crossing.

The service was the 12.45 Dublin Heuston to Westport. The fire developed in the undercarriage area near the gearbox of one carriage between Athlone and Roscommon near Glanduff Level Crossing.

In a statement, Irish Rail said the fire was confined to this area and that no part of the passenger area of the train was affected.

"Fire suppression systems activated and the driver used fire extinguishers and the fire was put out," an Irish Rail spokesperson added.

"As a precaution and due to smoke, the driver arranged for customers to move from the relevant carriage to an adjoining carriage, and the fire services were alerted and attended.

"We have arranged bus transfers, and approximately 100 customers on board have been detrained and brought to the level crossing, from where they are continuing their journeys by bus."

Disruption is expected on the Dublin / Westport route until further notice.

Irish Rail has apologised for the inconvenience caused to customers on this train and on later trains, which may be delayed or require bus transfers.