Train services on Dhaka-Chattigram route were disrupted for around two and a half hours as a mechanical fault developed in the engine of Meghna Express at Feni Railway Station on Saturday morning, leaving at least 800 passengers stranded.

Feni Railway Station master Md Harun said that the Meghna Express which departed Chandpur for Chattogram entered Feni junction around 8:22am when smoke was seen coming from its engine.

According to railway officials, after the train reached Feni station, a mechanical fault developed in the engine’s motor.

At one stage, there were indications of a possible fire in the motor, prompting the authorities to halt the train on the down line at the station.

The prolonged stoppage caused severe inconvenience to passengers, including women, children and elderly travellers. Many passengers got off the train and sought alternative transport.

Passenger Enamul Haque, travelling from Laksham to Chattogram, said that he boarded the train at 7:15am and had been waiting at Feni for more than two and a half hours while many passengers opted to continue their journey by road.

Later, the engine was repaired and replaced after which the train resumed its journey towards Chattogram, said Harun.