A routine commute in northern Singapore was abruptly disrupted after a portable charger burst into flames inside a train carriage, sending one passenger to hospital and sparking renewed concerns over lithium battery safety.
SINGAPORE – A woman was conveyed to hospital after a power bank ignited inside a train at Admiralty MRT station, alarming fellow commuters and prompting an emergency response.
The incident took place in the afternoon of March 16, when smoke and a loud popping sound were reported inside a northbound train. According to SMRT Trains, the situation was brought under control quickly after the passenger used an emergency communication button, allowing staff to respond swiftly.
The woman, who was closest to the device, managed to extinguish the flames before help arrived. She was given first aid at the station before being taken to Woodlands Health Campus for further medical attention. No other injuries were reported among passengers.
Passengers Describe Panic As Smoke Filled Cabin
Eyewitness accounts painted a tense scene inside the train. One commuter recalled hearing a sudden “bang”, followed by screams, as smoke began to spread across the carriage floor.
Passengers quickly stood up and moved away from the source of the fire, with some exiting the carriage entirely at the next opportunity. Images circulating online later showed burnt fragments believed to be from the exploded power bank scattered across the train floor.
Transport staff arrived shortly after and instructed commuters to disembark as a precautionary measure. The affected train was subsequently withdrawn from service and sent for inspection to ensure there were no further safety risks.
Train Service Resumes After Safety Checks
Despite the alarming nature of the incident, disruption to train services was minimal. Commuters were guided to board subsequent trains, allowing operations to continue with limited delay along the North-South Line.
Authorities confirmed that the Singapore Civil Defence Force received a call for assistance at around 3.20pm. Emergency responders assessed the situation upon arrival but found that the fire had already been put out.
Rail operator representatives later reiterated the importance of commuter vigilance when carrying electronic devices powered by lithium batteries, especially amid growing reliance on portable charging solutions.
Rising Concerns Over Power Bank Safety
This incident adds to a series of similar cases involving overheating or combustion of power banks in public spaces. Such devices, while convenient, can pose risks if damaged, overcharged, or manufactured without proper safety certifications.
Industry experts advise consumers to invest in certified products with built-in protection mechanisms against overheating, overcharging, and short circuits. Regular checks for swelling, unusual heat, or physical damage are also recommended to prevent potential hazards.
As Singapore continues to embrace a digitally connected lifestyle, the demand for portable electronics remains high. However, this latest episode serves as a timely reminder that safety should not be overlooked in the pursuit of convenience, especially in densely populated environments like the MRT network.