In message , Paul Terry
writes
A train going up in flames in Victoria Station at the height of the
rush hour would, at the very least, have caused the station to close
and the public to be evacuated, resulting in severe disruption to travel.

Since it is clear that there was no disruption to train services at the
time claimed, the conclusion is obvious to everyone reading this thread.

Are you sure it wasn't just your colleague's pants that were on fire?
Personal experience tells me that a traction motor flashover gives of a
terrifying smell with some smoke, but once the power is of it cools down
and apart from the motor no damage is done.
--
Clive.