Hundreds Evacuated After Russian Train Carrying Gas Derails

Hundreds of local residents have been evacuated after several dozen railcars carrying concentrated gas derailed and caught fire in the Russian city of Kirov, some 800 kilometers northeast of Moscow.

Russia's Emergencies Ministry said the accident occurred early on February 5, when 32 cars loaded with gas concentrate derailed and about a dozen caught fire.

It said no one was hurt.

The cause of the accident was being investigated.

The fire engulfed parts of a railway station in Kirov, forcing the evacuation of about 700 residents of nearby apartment buildings.

The accident cut traffic on the Trans-Siberian railway. Officials said emergency services have managed to bring the blaze under control.

Based on reporting by AP, ITAR-TASS, and Interfax