In a tragic train accident near Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district on Wednesday evening, 13 passengers lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries after panic over a fire rumor led to devastating consequences. The incident unfolded around 5 PM when the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express came to an emergency halt between Maheji and Pardhade stations, approximately 400 kilometers from Mumbai. Passengers reportedly pulled the emergency chain upon spotting sparks in one of the coaches, believed to be caused by a “hot axle” or “brake-binding.”
Fearing a fire, many passengers disembarked onto the adjacent track, where they were struck by the Karnataka Express, a Bengaluru-Delhi train, resulting in the fatal incident. Central Railway spokesperson Swapnil Nila confirmed that 13 lives were lost, with others injured. Disturbing visuals from the site revealed the grim aftermath, with bodies and shocked survivors scattered near the tracks.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and assured all necessary support for affected families. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a financial assistance package of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and pledged to cover the medical expenses of the injured. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also announced an ex gratia of ₹1.5 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased, ₹50,000 for those seriously injured, and ₹5,000 for passengers with minor injuries.
Efforts to identify the victims are underway, with seven individuals identified so far. Rescue operations included deploying an accident relief train from Bhusaval. Authorities, including the Railway Ministry, are investigating the exact cause of the mishap and working to ensure proper medical aid for survivors.
