Thu Jan 23 21:51:10 UTC 2025: ## 13 Killed, 10 Injured in Horrific Train Accident in Jalgaon, India

**Jalgaon, Maharashtra –** A devastating train accident in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district on Wednesday claimed the lives of 13 people and injured 10 others. The tragedy unfolded when passengers on the Mumbai-bound Pushpak Express disembarked their train due to a false alarm about a fire. As they stood on the tracks, the Bengaluru-New Delhi Karnataka Express, traveling on an adjacent track, struck them.

The false alarm, allegedly started by a pantry tea-seller, sparked panic among passengers causing several to jump from the train onto the tracks. The high-speed Karnataka Express, reportedly traveling at 130-140 kmph, then collided with the passengers. Four of the deceased have been identified as Nepali nationals. Among the victims were a minor boy and two women.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that the district administration is coordinating with railway authorities to provide medical care for the injured, deploying eight ambulances and preparing local hospitals. The state government announced a ₹5 lakh ex-gratia payment for the families of those killed. The Railway Ministry also announced ex-gratia payments of ₹1.5 lakh for the deceased’s kin, ₹50,000 for those seriously injured and ₹5,000 for those with minor injuries.

Investigations have been launched by several agencies, including a five-member team of senior railway officials, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), and the Government Railway Police (GRP). They are investigating the cause of the incident, specifically how the false fire alarm spread and why passengers left the train while it was stationary. The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) investigation has yet to be ordered.

The accident has prompted widespread grief and calls for accountability. Several high-profile officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed condolences and assured support for the victims’ families and the injured. Opposition leaders criticized the government, citing concerns about an increase in rail accidents. The incident underscores the need for improved safety measures and effective communication systems on Indian Railways.

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