At least 13 people were killed and several others injured in a tragic incident in Jalgaon district, Maharashtra, on Wednesday. Passengers on the Pushpak Express, traveling from Lucknow to Mumbai, jumped off the train in panic after rumors of a fire in one of the coaches, only to be struck by an oncoming express train.
According to officials, the incident occurred around 4:30 PM between Maheji and Pardhade stations, nearly 400 km from Mumbai. Passengers aboard the Pushpak Express noticed smoke near one of the general coaches, possibly due to a hot axle or brake-binding issue. Fearing a fire, some passengers pulled the emergency alarm chain and hastily exited the train. Unfortunately, as they were crossing the tracks, they were hit by the Karnataka Express, which was traveling on an adjacent track at an estimated speed of 60-80 km/h.“
The panic caused by the smoke led to passengers jumping off the train,” a senior Indian Railways official stated. “The exact cause of the smoke will be determined after further investigation.”
The state administration confirmed 13 fatalities, and ten others are reported to be injured and receiving treatment. Local authorities have warned that the casualty numbers could rise. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with passengers from the Pushpak Express scrambling to exit the train after hearing reports of a fire.”
I saw two people being mowed down right in front of me,” said Sandeep Jadhav, a passenger on the Pushpak Express. Another passenger, Suresh Gupta, recalled the panic that spread when rumors of a fire circulated. “People started jumping off the train in fear,” he said.
The accident took place on a curved section of track, which may have contributed to the difficulty in spotting the oncoming train. Officials noted that the curvature reduced the time for the Karnataka Express driver to react, though emergency measures were taken, including the activation of warning lights.
The Pushpak Express is a popular train for migrant workers traveling between Lucknow and Mumbai. The Railway Board, along with state and national leaders, has expressed condolences. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conveyed his grief and offered prayers for the victims, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis to ensure proper relief efforts were underway.
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis announced a financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and confirmed that the state government was providing full support to the injured. Relief teams and ambulances have been dispatched to the site.
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also expressed his sorrow and instructed officials to ensure proper medical care for the injured. The incident is under investigation, and authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
This devastating event has left the local and migrant communities in shock, as families and officials work together to provide assistance in the aftermath.
