Sunday, June 12 2005 20:13 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Moscow: In a suspected terrorist strike, a passenger train from Chechen capital Grozny derailed near Moscow after a bomb blast on the track injuring 15 people today (Jun 12, 2005), coinciding with Russia's National Day.

Four bogies of Grozny- Moscow train 381 derailed near Uzunovo station, 140 kilometres from Moscow when the driver applied emergency brakes following a blast on the tracks. Fifteen people, including two children, suffered serious injuries.

Federal Security Service (FSB) officials said a case of terror blast has been registered and investigations were underway.

"The engine-driver said that an explosion occurred on the tracks in front of the locomotive," FSB spokesperson Shemy. Serious causalities were prevented as the train was moving slowly on that stretch owing to a sharp bend.

Investigators found a half meter wide and one meter deep crater at the scene of the accident. Wires leading from it to suspected terrorist hideout were also discovered, Radio Mayak reported.

Thirteen passengers with light injuries got medical aid at the site. Two children were rushed to the Central District Hospital of nearby town Serebryanye Prudy," spokesman for the Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations Viktor Beltsov said.

The blast occurred as Russia celebrated its national day today amid tight security. Rebels from restive province of Chechnya have targeted Russian installations a number of times in the past.