Authorities in southern Germany say efforts to put out a fire on a train turned into a spectacular chase on Friday after the driverless diesel engine began taking off towards Austria of its own accord.
Firefighters had been called to put out a train blaze near the village of Strass at about 3am, the Bavarian Red Cross said. But shortly before they arrived, the engine started moving downhill on the sloping track, picking up speed as it rolled several kilometres towards the town of Freilassing.
A video posted online by the Freilassing Volunteer Firefighting Company showed flames and smoke pouring from the train as it swept through the town.
With firefighters in hot pursuit, railway officials managed to switch the “ghost train” onto a side track near Freilassing station, where it was stopped by a buffer before it could cross the border.
The fire was extinguished and nobody was injured, the Bavarian Red Cross said.
Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction
Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.
Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.
Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.
Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.
Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.
What are the guidelines?
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.
Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.
Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.
Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.
Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.
Source: American Paediatric Association
Dhadak
Director: Shashank Khaitan
Starring: Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khattar, Ashutosh Rana
Stars: 3
