Jalgaon (Maharashtra): At least 12 people were killed and several others injured in a tragic incident in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district, sparked by a fire rumor. Passengers from the Pushpak Express, fearing a fire, jumped onto the tracks, only to be struck by the approaching Karnataka Express. The tragedy unfolded near Pachora taluka, resulting in the deaths of 12 individuals, including eight men, three women, and a 10-year-old child.
The accident occurred on the railway line between Mahiji and Pardhade stations, after passengers exited their coaches in panic, suspecting a fire.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, currently attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, described the incident as deeply distressing and paid tribute to the victims. He announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh to the families of the deceased and directed the Jalgaon district administration to ensure free medical treatment for the injured. Fadnavis said that his colleague, Minister Girish Mahajan, and the Superintendent of Police had reached the site, while the District Collector was en route. He added that the district administration was working closely with the railway authorities, and arrangements were being made for the injured. Eight ambulances were dispatched, and nearby hospitals, both public and private, were prepared to treat the victims. Emergency equipment, including glass cutters and floodlights, was also sent to assist in rescue operations.
Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan personally supervised the rescue and relief efforts at the accident site. The Jalgaon district administration established control rooms in Jalgaon, Bhargaon, Pachora, and Bhusaval to manage the situation. A team from the Indian Medical Association was engaged to coordinate with doctors at the district hospital and other nearby medical facilities.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde instructed officials to ensure that the injured were promptly transported to hospitals and provided with proper medical care. He emphasized the need for immediate action and coordinated relief efforts.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also expressed condolences for the deceased and stated that the district administration had been contacted to gather information about the accident. He confirmed that arrangements for relief and free treatment for the injured were being made. Rescue operations were being carried out on a war footing, with Minister Girish Mahajan, the District Collector, and the Superintendent of Police leading the efforts. Equipment such as glass cutters and floodlights was deployed to ensure that relief work could continue through the night.
The district administration and railway authorities are coordinating their efforts to manage the aftermath of the accident and provide support to the affected passengers.
With IANS inputs