In a tragic incident in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, 13 people lost their lives, and 10 others sustained injuries after the Bengaluru-New Delhi Karnataka Express collided with passengers of the Mumbai-bound Pushpak Express on Wednesday evening. The accident occurred near Pachora when some passengers of the Pushpak Express stepped out of the train due to panic caused by a rumored fire.
Key Highlights:
- Cause of the Accident:
A tea-seller in the pantry car reportedly raised an alarm about a fire, triggering panic among passengers. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar confirmed that this “sheer rumor” led to chaos, with passengers jumping off the train and onto the adjacent track, where they were hit by the Karnataka Express. - Casualties and Injuries:
Among the deceased were four Nepalese nationals, including a minor boy and two women. The accident also left 10 others injured, some critically. - Ex-Gratia Announcements:
- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased.
- The Railway Ministry declared ₹1.5 lakh compensation for the victims’ kin.
- Response and Rescue Efforts:
The district administration, in coordination with railway authorities, dispatched 8 ambulances to the site. Emergency equipment, including glass cutters and floodlights, was deployed. Both public and private hospitals in the area were alerted to treat the injured.
International Reactions and Investigation
- Nepal’s Reaction:
Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba expressed sorrow over the tragedy, extending condolences to the families of the victims. Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is coordinating with Indian authorities to facilitate the treatment of the injured and the repatriation of the deceased. - Investigation Initiated:
- The Railway Board has formed a team of senior officials to investigate the incident.
- The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) are also conducting separate inquiries.
- While the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) has not been ordered to investigate yet, officials are focusing on the circumstances leading to the panic.
Political Responses
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi termed the accident “extremely sad and distressing.” He called for a swift investigation and urged Congress workers to assist in relief operations.
Conclusion
This unfortunate incident underscores the need for better passenger safety and awareness. Authorities are working to determine the root cause and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
