National Desk
23 January
Ludhiana
Journalist
Sandeep Dhand
A tragic train accident in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district on Wednesday evening claimed 13 lives, including four Nepali nationals, officials confirmed. Panic broke out among passengers on the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express due to a rumor about a fire in the train. Several passengers jumped off, and one person was run over by another train.
According to a report from the Jalgaon District Magistrate’s office, the accident occurred around 5:05 PM between Meheji and Pradhade stations, about 400 kilometers from Mumbai. The initial report states that 13 people died and 10 others were injured. Seven victims have been identified, while six remain unidentified. Among the deceased were four women.
Preliminary reports suggest that smoke was seen from one of the coaches of the Pushpak Express due to a possible “hot axle” or “brake binding,” causing passengers to panic. Some pulled the emergency chain, bringing the train to a halt. In the chaos, several passengers exited the train and were struck by the Karnataka Express, which was passing on an adjacent track.
The accident left behind a grim scene with bodies lying on the tracks and injured passengers covered in blood. Rescue teams arrived shortly after to provide assistance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “Saddened by the tragic train accident in Jalgaon. My thoughts are with the bereaved families, and I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are providing all possible support to those affected.”
The Railway Ministry announced compensation of ₹1.5 lakh for the families of the deceased, ₹50,000 for those seriously injured, and ₹5,000 for those with minor injuries. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, announced an additional ₹5 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased.