Jalgaon Pushpak Express Train Accident: In a tragic incident on Wednesday, at least 11 people lost their lives, and six to seven others sustained injuries after being hit by a train in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district. The accident occurred when passengers of the Pushpak Express, alarmed by a suspected fire, jumped off the train and were struck by the Karnataka Express traveling on a parallel track.
The Pushpak Express, en route from Lucknow to Mumbai, was passing near Jalgaon when rumors of a fire in one of its coaches triggered panic among passengers. A railway official explained that sparks, possibly caused by a “hot axle” or “brake-binding,” led to fears of a fire on board. In response, the passengers pulled the emergency chain to halt the train.
In their attempt to escape the perceived danger, several passengers jumped off the halted Pushpak Express, landing on an adjacent track. Tragically, the Karnataka Express, traveling from Bengaluru to Delhi, struck many of them.
How did the Pushpak Express Accident Happen
Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer (CRPO) of Central Railway, described the incident: “After the chain was pulled, several passengers got off from one of the coaches of the train. At the time, the Karnataka Express, which was traveling on the parallel track, hit several passengers.”
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep sorrow over the incident and ensured swift action: “The unfortunate incident near Pachora in Jalgaon district in which some people lost their lives is very painful. I pay my heartfelt tributes to them. My colleague, Minister Girish Mahajan, along with the Superintendent of Police, has reached the spot, and the District Collector will be there shortly. The entire district administration is working in coordination with the railway administration, and immediate arrangements are being made for the treatment of the injured.”
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Eight ambulances were dispatched to the site, and nearby hospitals have been prepared to treat the injured.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. He directed authorities to ensure proper treatment for the injured and provide assistance to the affected families.
Safety Concerns and Lessons
This tragic event underscores the importance of enhanced safety measures and passenger awareness during emergencies. Authorities are expected to investigate the root causes of the incident and take measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the nation mourns this loss, it serves as a grim reminder of the critical need for coordination and safety in India’s vast railway network.
