A tragic accident claimed the lives of at least eight people in North Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district on Wednesday evening after they were run over by an oncoming train. Here’s what we know so far:
The incident
The incident
- The accident occurred around 4:50 pm on Wednesday near Jalgaon district in North Maharashtra, between Pardhande and Maheji railway stations.
- The Lucknow-CSMT Pushpak Express came to an emergency halt after passengers reportedly pulled the alarm chain, fearing a fire in one of the coaches.
- Panic-stricken passengers jumped off the stationary train onto the adjacent track, unaware of the approaching Karnataka Express.
- Some passengers alighted from the train onto the tracks and were struck by the Karnataka Express, which was approaching from the opposite direction.
Casualties
- At least six persons were killed in the accident, as confirmed by Central Railway officials and local authorities.
- Divisional Commissioner of Nashik Praveen Gedam told ANI that eight fatalities had been reported.
- Further details about the victims are awaited, and an investigation is ongoing.
Rescue efforts
- Eight ambulances have reached the accident site, and additional rescue vans, including Railway ambulances, are being rushed.
- Local officials, including the SP, Additional SP, Collector, and Divisional Railway Manager, are at the scene, coordinating rescue operations.
Official statement
- “We are on the spot, coordinating with DRM and Railway officials. Administration is providing all possible help,” said Divisional Commissioner Praveen Gedam.
- Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath expresses grief over the Pushpak train accident. He has ordered adequate medical treatment for the injured, also condoled the demise of passengers.
- Central Railway CPRO Swapnil Kumar Leela described the incident as a result of chain-pulling, confirming injuries and efforts to dispatch medical assistance.