Wed Jan 22 19:13:11 UTC 2025: ## Panic Over False Fire Alarm Leads to Deadly Train Tragedy in Maharashtra

**Pachora, Maharashtra, January 23, 2025** – At least 13 passengers were killed and 10 injured in a horrific railway accident in Jalgaon district, North Maharashtra, on Wednesday evening. The tragedy unfolded after a false alarm of a fire on the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express caused widespread panic, leading to passengers jumping from the train and being struck by another train on an adjacent track.

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as passengers, fearing a fire, rushed to disembark the train after a vendor’s shouted warning and the pulling of the emergency chain. Approximately 200 people exited the train, with those who jumped onto the tracks of the oncoming Karnataka Express suffering fatal injuries. One witness reported that only passengers from three coaches near the engine disembarked, highlighting the potential for greater loss of life had more followed suit.

Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan, who visited the accident site, confirmed that the initial reports of a fire were unfounded. He stated that body parts of the deceased were scattered across the tracks and that the injured, though reportedly out of danger, were receiving care. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, currently in Davos, released a video message assuring the public that emergency services were deployed and that the situation was being closely monitored.

The incident sparked outrage and calls for improved railway safety. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray called for enhanced safety measures, while Congress leaders Nana Patole and Vijay Wadettiwar criticized the government’s response and demanded a thorough investigation. Jalgaon Superintendent of Police Maheshwar Reddy stated that initial inquiries suggest some passengers mistook a minor incident for a fire.

District Collector Ayush Prasad detailed the rescue efforts, which involved multi-agency coordination and the establishment of a district-level control room. He also confirmed that four individuals sustained serious injuries, and that the injured were receiving medical attention at nearby hospitals. Reports also emerged of missing personal belongings amidst the chaos. The incident underscores the need for effective communication and improved safety protocols on Indian Railways.

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