Forensic experts who collected samples from the scene of blasts were of the view that low-intensity explosives like sulphur or nitrate were used to trigger the explosions and kerosene-filled bottles kept in the bogies were used as a catalyst to spread the fire.
The experts have recovered several kerosene bottles, 3 pipe bombs and some low-intensity explosive devices from other compartments of the train, which caught fire at midnight.
"The modus operandi is new. They had used low-intensity explosives to trigger the blast and kerosene to ignite the fire. The idea, it seems, was to cause large scale destruction by fire," J S Mahanwal, director,forensic laboratory, Haryana, said.
Forensic experts said they are yet to find out whether a timer device or some other equipment like flash were used to trigger the explosives. "We have collected samples, and will soon find out how the explosives were triggered."
Initial investigations have also ruled out the use of RDX in the explosions and is moving on the assumption that sulphur or nitrate were used.
"We have defused two pipe bombs, 2 IEDs and recovered 10 to 15 kerosene bottles from three compartments," Mahanwal said. (PTI)
Updated at 1035 hrs: At least 64 people have been killed in suspected IED blasts in two coaches of the Delhi-Attari special train for Lahore in Deewana in Panipat, about 100 kms from Delhi, Railway Minister Lalu Prasad said today.
The train runs non-stop from Delhi to Attari where the passengers are shifted to the Samjhauta Express, which goes to Lahore after customs and immigration clearances.
"At least 64 people are dead. They include three Railway Protection Force personnel," he told PTI in Patna.
Prasad, who is leaving for Panipat by a special plane, said that two suitcases containing IEDs have been recovered from the site of the incident.
A statutory probe has also been ordered, he said, adding that compensation as per the Railway rules would be paid to the next of the kin of the victims.
Condemning the incident, the Minister said it was an attempt to derail the improving relations between India and Pakistan.
"It was an attempt to derail the improving ties between the two countries," he said adding, "I do not rule out sabotage since IEDs have been found."
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed anguish over the loss of innocent lives, and said the culprits "would be traced and brought to book." (PTI)
Helpline Numbers: The railways have set up special telephone helplines to provide information related to the Samjhauta Express train tragedy.
