LUCKNOW, June 9 -- Panic gripped passengers aboard the Marudhar Express late Monday night after smoke and sparks were seen emanating from the wheel assembly of a general coach near Saidkhanpur railway station in Barabanki district.

The incident occurred while Train No. 14853 was heading towards Barabanki. Railway authorities immediately halted the train at Saidkhanpur station after receiving information about the suspected fire.

Passengers rushed out of the affected coach after noticing smoke and flames beneath the bogie. Railway staff alerted the Railway Protection Force (RPF), following which a technical team was despatched to the spot.

A preliminary inquiry revealed that the incident was caused by brake binding, a mechanical fault t...