Thu Jan 23 07:22:50 IST 2025: ## 12 Dead, 5 Injured in Tragic Train Accident in Maharashtra
**Jalgaon, Maharashtra –** At least 12 people were killed and five injured Wednesday evening in a tragic train accident near Pachora in Jalgaon district, North Maharashtra. Passengers aboard the Pushpak Express, traveling from Lucknow to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, panicked after noticing sparks and mistakenly believing a fire had broken out. They pulled the emergency chain, causing the train to stop, and several jumped onto the tracks. Simultaneously, the oncoming Karnataka Express struck them, resulting in the fatalities.
The incident occurred around 5 pm between Maheji and Pardhade stations. Initial reports suggest the sparks may have originated from a hot axle or brake failure on the Pushpak Express. However, officials are investigating the precise cause.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed deep sorrow and announced an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh to the families of each victim. He also stated that the district administration, along with railway officials, is coordinating rescue efforts and providing medical assistance to the injured. Multiple ambulances were dispatched to the scene, and hospitals have been placed on high alert.
Central Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Swapnil Kumar Leela, confirmed that the emergency chain was pulled on the Pushpak Express. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed condolences and ordered adequate medical care for the injured. NCP leader Anil Deshmukh added his condolences, highlighting the role of a false fire alarm in the incident. The investigation into the accident is ongoing.
First Piper 