In Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district, a tragic accident involving the Karnataka Express has claimed three lives, with indications that the death toll may rise further. The incident occurred after passengers on the Pushpak Express, alarmed by rumors of a fire onboard, pulled the emergency chain and alighted onto a nearby track, where they were struck by the approaching Karnataka Express.
The accident took place between Meheji and Pardade stations, near Pachora, around 400 kilometers from Mumbai. According to Central Railway officials, someone pulled the chain on the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express around 5 p.m., following panic over an alleged fire.
“Preliminary information suggests sparks were seen due to a ‘hot axle’ or ‘brake binding’ (jamming) issue in one of the Pushpak Express coaches. This caused some passengers to panic and pull the chain, while others jumped onto the track. At the same time, the Karnataka Express was passing on the adjacent track,” a senior railway official told PTI. Of the 13 confirmed dead, seven have been identified, while six remain unidentified. Missing body parts have complicated rescue and identification efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over the railway tragedy.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic accident on the railway tracks in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance to the affected,” the Prime Minister wrote on X.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh each for the families of the deceased.
