Power bank catches fire on Tsuen Wan West-bound train, 400 evacuated

A passenger’s 10,000mAh power bank burst into flames inside a Tuen Ma Line carriage at Tsuen Wan West Station on Friday morning, forcing the evacuation of about 400 passengers; no one was injured.

The incident occurred at 8.35am on platform 2 (towards Wu Kai Sha direction). A young male passenger’s power bank, purchased about a month ago and carried in a sling bag, suddenly started smoking heavily. He managed to extinguish it himself.

White smoke filled the carriage, causing passengers to cough and choke. Some opened emergency ventilation windows to clear the air and urged people in adjacent cars to do the same. 

The train stopped at Tsuen Wan West but initially issued no announcement to alight; roughly half the passengers exited anyway. 

A broadcast to evacuate came over half a minute later. A burnt smell remained at the platform after everyone had left.

Netizens shared experiences online, describing thick white smoke rising rapidly, brief moments of breathlessness, and near-panic, though many praised fellow passengers for staying calm. 

One person noted someone shouted for the fire extinguisher, which was quickly used, while staff waited at Tsuen Wan West to assist.

The train was temporarily taken out of service for inspection and cleaning. The MTR is investigating the cause of the power bank failure.