Mumbai: At least 11 people were killed, and nine others injured, including four seriously, in a horrific train accident on Wednesday evening near Pachora in the Bhusaval division of Central Railway. The tragedy unfolded when panic-stricken passengers of the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express jumped off the train due to rumors of a fire, only to be struck by the speeding Karnataka Express on an adjacent track.

The incident occurred around 5 pm between Maheji and Pardhade stations after someone pulled the emergency chain on the Pushpak Express, halting the train. Initial investigations by railway officials indicate that sparks and smoke inside the D-3 general coach of the train were likely caused by a “hot axle” or “brake-binding.” This caused chaos inside the crowded coach, prompting several passengers to jump onto the tracks. Tragically, many were unaware of the approaching Karnataka Express, resulting in the devastating accident.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with bodies and severed remains scattered across the tracks. Local authorities and railway officials rushed to the spot to provide assistance. Ambulances and an Accident Relief Train were dispatched from Bhusaval to transport the injured to nearby hospitals.

A senior official of Central Railway stated, "Arrangements were made in coordination with the local administration to provide immediate medical aid to the injured. Both trains were cleared from the site shortly after the accident, ensuring minimal disruption to rail operations."

The injured have been admitted to nearby hospitals, and the Maharashtra government has instructed both government and private hospitals in the region to be prepared for their treatment.

Government Response

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed profound grief over the tragedy, posting on X (formerly Twitter): "Deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the Jalgaon train accident. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. All possible assistance will be provided to the injured."

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also termed the incident "very unfortunate," adding that a Guardian Minister had been dispatched to the site to oversee relief efforts. "The government will provide all necessary support to the injured, and officials have been directed to conduct a thorough review of the incident," he said.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact sequence of events and assess the reasons behind the chain-pulling incident that led to the tragedy. A senior railway official who visited the site confirmed that both the trains departed within 20 minutes of the accident.

"The accident has once again raised concerns about passenger safety on crowded trains and the need for enhanced emergency protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future" said a passenger activist.