Wed Jan 22 22:15:08 IST 2025: ## Train Collision in Maharashtra Kills 12 After Passengers Flee False Fire Alarm
**Jalgaon, Maharashtra –** Twelve people died in a tragic train accident near Pachora, Maharashtra, early this morning. The incident occurred when passengers aboard the Pushpak Express panicked and jumped onto the tracks after a false alarm of a fire.
According to witnesses, sparks and smoke emanating from a suspected hot axle or brake failure in one of the Pushpak Express carriages sparked a rumour of a fire, igniting a mass panic. Passengers, believing the train was on fire, began leaping from the train onto the tracks. A witness, Vishal Yadav, who sustained knee injuries, described the scene as a chaotic stampede.
Before they could clear the tracks, the Karnataka Express arrived on an adjacent line, tragically running over those who had disembarked. Officials confirmed that the fatalities resulted from being struck by the oncoming train.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh (approximately $6,200 USD) to the families of each victim. He stated that Minister Girish Mahajan is overseeing rescue and support efforts in Jalgaon.
A preliminary railway investigation suggests that sparks and smoke, possibly due to a hot axle or brake failure, were the origin of the false fire alarm that triggered the tragic chain of events. The accident occurred between Maheji and Pardhade stations, over 400 km from Mumbai.
First Piper 