Freight Train Derails in Russia’s Sverdlovsk Region, Igniting Seven Tanker Cars

A major freight train derailment followed by a severe fire occurred in Russia’s Sverdlovsk Region early Monday morning. The incident took place at approximately 01:30 local time on the Makarchevo–Sedelnikovo rail section, causing 20 freight cars to derail and triggering a fire in seven tanker cars.

According to Sverdlovsk Railway authorities, the derailment obstructed adjacent tracks, prompting an immediate temporary suspension of rail traffic across the corridor. Passenger lines were not affected, and no casualties have been reported. Emergency recovery crews successfully moved 54 undamaged wagons to a safe perimeter. Cleanup and firefighting operations involve 106 personnel and 31 units of heavy equipment, including 58 rescue specialists and 20 vehicles from Russia's Emergency Situations Ministry (EMERCOM). Sverdlovsk transport prosecutors and criminal investigators have initiated an inquiry into the causes of the derailment, while consumer protection watchdog Rospotrebnadzor announced air quality monitoring in surrounding residential areas.