In a tragic incident near Nishapur, Iran, a runaway freight train carrying a dangerous cargo of sulfur, petrol, and fertilizer experienced a catastrophic derailment. The train was reportedly moving at high speed when it lost control, leading to an immediate and uncontrollable fire. As emergency responders rushed to the scene to address the crisis, the situation escalated dramatically. The combination of the flammable materials on board created a volatile mix, and the fire ultimately led to a massive explosion that devastated the area. During this incident, rescue workers were particularly affected, with 182 of the total fatalities of up to 295 individuals being those who had arrived to help with the emergency response efforts.

Witnesses reported seeing a massive plume of smoke and fire created by the explosion, which was powerful enough to be felt in nearby towns. The force of the blast destroyed several buildings and rail cars, and the destruction extended over a significant radius. The local government and emergency services faced immense challenges in controlling the fallout from the explosion and managing the aftermath, which included both immediate and long-term health risks due to the toxic materials involved. Investigations were conducted to understand the causes of the derailment and the subsequent explosion, leading to discussions on the adequacy of existing safety measures on freight trains in Iran, particularly those carrying hazardous materials.