Jalgaon train accident: Initial investigations say false fire alarm reason behind tragedy

In a devastating incident in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district, 13 passengers lost their lives after jumping off the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express on Tuesday evening. The tragedy unfolded when panic erupted due to a false alarm about a fire, leading several passengers to leap from the train and inadvertently onto the path of the Karnataka Express on an adjacent track.

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The incident occurred between Maheji and Pardhade stations near Pachora town around 4:45 pm. Reports indicate that the chaos began after an individual pulled the train’s emergency chain, claiming there was a fire in one of the coaches. As the train slowed, passengers, fearing for their safety, started jumping out of the coach. Tragically, those who landed on the side of the Karnataka Express were struck and killed instantly.

Officials from Central Railway confirmed that there was no fire or spark detected in the train, based on their initial investigation. The death toll could have been higher, as several passengers who jumped in the opposite direction were fortunate to land on the non-track side and escape unscathed.

Railway authorities have launched a detailed inquiry into the incident to establish accountability and prevent such occurrences in the future. The mishap highlights the grave dangers posed by misinformation and panic during emergencies.