Tragedy Strikes in Maharashtra: Passengers Run Over by Train in Jalgaon, Death Toll Varies

Jalgaon, Maharashtra: A tragic incident unfolded in North Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district on Wednesday evening when passengers from the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express were run over by another train after stepping onto the tracks due to panic caused by a fire rumor. Officials have confirmed at least 10 fatalities, though reports indicate the death toll could be much higher.

The accident occurred between Maheji and Pardhade stations near Pachora, over 400 km from Mumbai, where the Pushpak Express had stopped after someone pulled the emergency chain around 5 p.m. due to reports of sparks and smoke in one of the general compartments. Panic-stricken passengers disembarked and were struck by the oncoming Karnataka Express, which was heading from Bengaluru to Delhi.

Conflicting Reports on Death Toll

Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan cited figures from the district collector, estimating the casualties to be between 10 and 12. However, Union Minister Raksha Khadse, who hails from the district, suggested the number of deaths could be as high as 40. Visuals from the scene depicted severed body parts and the wreckage of the incident.

Cause of Panic

Preliminary investigations point to technical issues, either a “hot axle” or “brake-binding,” as the source of the sparks and smoke in the Pushpak Express. This led to widespread fear among passengers, prompting the emergency chain to be pulled and some to jump off the halted train, inadvertently putting themselves in harm’s way.

A senior railway official confirmed, “Our initial assessment indicates there was no fire. The sparks were likely caused by mechanical issues, but the panic led to passengers stepping onto the adjacent tracks just as the Karnataka Express was passing.”

Response and Relief Efforts

An Accident Relief Train has been dispatched to the site from Bhusaval, and local hospitals—both government and private—have been instructed to remain on standby to treat injured passengers. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter) and assured that all necessary medical aid and support are being provided to victims and their families.

Central Railway Chief Spokesperson Swapnil Nila emphasized the need for further investigations, adding that senior officials were en route to the scene to assess the situation.

Eyewitness Accounts

Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and fear as passengers rushed out of the train. “There was confusion everywhere. People were screaming and running, and before anyone could react, the Karnataka Express sped by,” said a survivor.

This incident highlights the critical need for awareness and better safety protocols during emergencies on trains. The railway ministry has assured a detailed inquiry to determine the sequence of events and prevent such tragedies in the future.

As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, questions are being raised about the efficiency of safety measures and communication systems in place for passenger trains.