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 the Meghna Express which departed Chandpur for Chattogram entered Feni junction around 8:22 am when smoke was seen coming from its engine, railway sources said.

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 he boarded the train at 7:15 am 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 Station Master Harun.