At least eight people lost their lives in Jalgaon train accident after being struck by the Bengaluru Express in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district, railway officials confirmed. The fatal accident occurred near the Paranda railway station on Wednesday evening, leaving the region in shock.
Sequence of Events Leading to the Jalgaon Train Accident
The Jalgaon Train Accident began aboard the Pushpak Express when smoke was seen emanating from the train’s wheels, sparking panic among passengers. Fearing a fire, several passengers jumped off the stationary train and onto the adjacent tracks. Unfortunately, as they attempted to escape the perceived danger, the Bengaluru Express, traveling in the opposite direction, struck the passengers.
Jalgaon, Maharashtra: A false fire alarm in the Pushpak Express at Paranda Railway Station caused panicked passengers to jump off the train. Tragically, several were run over by the Karnataka Express passing on another track https://t.co/Gs3RGOnksa pic.twitter.com/lmIHkE6IKb
— IANS (@ians_india) January 22, 2025
Central Railway officials clarified that the Pushpak Express had come to an abrupt halt near Pachora station after someone pulled the emergency chain, mistakenly believing there was a fire on board. Swapnil Nila, Chief Spokesperson for Central Railway, stated: “The passengers, suspecting a fire in the train, exited their coaches and were tragically hit by the oncoming train.”
Authorities Respond to the Jalgaon Train Accident
The collision resulted in a devastating loss of life, highlighting the need for improved communication and safety protocols in such emergencies.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. Through a statement issued by the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), he offered his condolences to the families of the deceased and directed authorities to ensure proper medical care for those injured in the accident.
According to initial reports, passengers aboard the Pushpak Express, which was traveling from Lucknow to Mumbai, noticed sparks while the train was braking. Fearing a fire onboard, the passengers panicked and began fleeing the train, jumping onto the tracks in a frantic attempt to escape. Tragically, as they attempted to cross the tracks, they were struck by the Karnataka Express, which was traveling in the opposite direction.