The driver of the Mettupalayam-Coimbatore Passenger noticed the fire near the radiator of the engine after the train started its journey at 1.05 PM and travelled for about two kms, police said.
He immediately stopped the train and put off the fire using the fire extinguisher. The fire if went unnoticed could have spread, they said.
The train was then taken to Karamadai station and resumed its journey after a spare engine was sent from here.