Rumored Fire Leads to Deadly Train Collision in Maharashtra

Passengers Fleeing Rumored Fire Hit by Oncoming Train

A tragic incident unfolded in the western Indian state of Maharashtra on Wednesday, claiming the lives of 12 individuals and injuring 15 others. The incident occurred when passengers on the Pushpak Express panicked after hearing rumors of a fire, leading them to pull the emergency chain and disembark from the train. However, their hasty actions resulted in a devastating collision with the Karnataka Express, an oncoming train traveling on a parallel track.

The incident took place around 4:50 pm local time. Passengers on the Pushpak Express panicked upon hearing rumors of a fire, prompting them to pull the emergency chain and bring the train to a halt. Several passengers disembarked from the right side of the train, unaware of the approaching Karnataka Express. Tragically, these individuals were struck by the oncoming train, resulting in the loss of 12 lives and injuries to 15 others.

Railway officials later clarified that there was no actual fire on the Pushpak Express. The initial panic was likely caused by sparks inside one of the coaches, possibly due to a "hot axle" or "brake-binding" issue. However, this misinformation proved to be fatal for the unsuspecting passengers who disembarked.

The incident has sparked widespread grief and anger across India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. The railways ministry and the Maharashtra state government have announced compensation for the families of the victims.

This tragedy highlights the need for improved safety measures on India's extensive railway network. Despite modernization efforts, frequent train accidents continue to raise concerns about passenger safety. The Indian government must prioritize addressing these issues to prevent further loss of life.