The train carrying Hindu pilgrims arrived in Godhra station on February 27th, 2002 where a scuffle broke out between a passenger and a Muslim tea vendor. When the train left the station, some passengers were left on the platform and the train's chain was pulled in four coaches. This led to stone throwing between passengers on the train and Muslim residents near the station. The train stopped again near cabin A where a group ran from the parcel office, threw stones, and set one of the train's coaches on fire. The police arrived and opened fire to disperse the mob 12 minutes later.

1. Sequence of events.. The Godhra mishap, gujrat 27 th February 2002.