The death toll from the train accident in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, has risen to 13, according to officials. Among the deceased, four were Nepali nationals.
The tragic incident occurred after a fire rumor on the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express triggered panic among passengers, leading several to jump off the train and get crushed by an oncoming train.
Jalgaon Train Accident Details & Cause
The accident took place around 5:05 p.m. on January 23, between Maheji and Pardhade stations near Pachora, roughly 400 km from Mumbai. The Pushpak Express, which travels between Lucknow and Mumbai, suddenly stopped after passengers pulled the emergency chain due to the fire rumor.
As passengers evacuated the train in panic, many of them stepped onto the tracks and were struck by the Karnataka Express, traveling from Bengaluru to Delhi on an adjacent track.
Initial reports indicate that sparks inside one of the coaches of the Pushpak Express were caused by either a “hot axle” or “brake binding” (jamming), which contributed to the panic. As a result, some passengers mistakenly believed a fire had broken out and attempted to flee, leading to the unfortunate tragedy.
Jalgaon Casualties And Victims Identified
According to the Maharashtra government report, 13 people have died, and 10 others have been injured in the mishap. Among the victims, four were Nepali nationals. Seven of the deceased have been identified, while six others remain unidentified. Authorities confirmed that four women were among the casualties.
Harrowing images from the scene showed bodies lying on the tracks, and survivors moving around covered in blood. The chaotic scenes underscored the severity of the incident.
Railway Ministry And State Government Response
In response to the tragedy, the Railway Ministry has announced compensation of Rs 1.5 lakh for the families of the victims, Rs 50,000 for those seriously injured, and Rs 5,000 for individuals with minor injuries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the victims on social media, saying, “Anguished by the tragic accident on the railway tracks in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance to those affected.”
Anguished by the tragic accident on the railway tracks in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of all the injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance to those affected: PM @narendramodi
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) January 22, 2025
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, also extended his sympathies.
In a video message on X, Fadnavis announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each to the families who lost loved ones in the tragedy. He further assured that the state government would bear all medical expenses for the injured and prayed for their swift recovery.
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