A devastating train accident occurred on Wednesday, January 22, in North Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district, resulting in the loss of at least 12 lives. The incident took place when passengers of the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express stepped outside their coaches, suspecting a fire on the train, and were subsequently hit by the Karnataka Express.
According to officials, the Pushpak Express had halted between Maheji and Pardhade stations near Pachora, approximately 400 km from Mumbai, after an emergency chain pull around 5 pm. As passengers disembarked, fearing a fire, they were struck by the Karnataka Express, which was passing by from the opposite direction.
Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan confirmed the fatalities, stating that 10 to 12 people had lost their lives. Railway officials and emergency staff have arrived at the scene, and rescue operations are underway.
The cause of the panic is believed to have been sparks in one of the coaches of the Pushpak Express, possibly due to a “hot axle” or “brake-binding.” The authorities have confirmed the fatalities, but further details, including the number of injured, are awaited.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing, and senior officials are expected to arrive at the scene shortly. The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the nation, with many expressing condolences for the families of the victims.
