Pushpak Express Train Accident in Jalgaon: A Detailed Analysis

Initial Incident and Panic

The Pushpak Express, traveling from Lucknow to Mumbai, experienced a moment of panic when passengers noticed sparks emanating from the train’s wheels after the brakes were applied near Jalgaon railway station. This occurred as the train passed through Jalgaon station and approached Pachora. This sight caused alarm among the passengers, leading some to pull the emergency chain.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that some passengers, in a state of panic, jumped onto the tracks from one side of the train, while others exited towards a culvert wall on the other side. Unfortunately, those who jumped onto the tracks were struck by an oncoming train, the Karnataka Express, resulting in a devastating loss of life.

Chain of Events

According to a passenger interviewed by a Marathi news channel, the incident unfolded as the train was passing Jalgaon station and reached near Pachora. When the brakes were applied, passengers noticed sparks from the wheels, creating a sense of dread. Some passengers reacted by pulling the emergency chain and disembarking from the train. The ensuing chaos led to a collision with the Karnataka Express which was travelling in the opposite direction. The passenger further mentioned that at least two passengers were crushed under the wheels of the Karnataka Express and that the unofficial count could be around eight to nine fatalities.

Casualties and Aftermath

Official reports confirm that at least 13 passengers died due to the panic and subsequent actions, but this number was revised to 12 in later reports. The passengers had jumped from the train after hearing rumors of fire and were struck by another train on the adjacent track. The accident occurred approximately 400 km from Mumbai, near Paranda Railway Station, between Jalgaon and Pachora stations around 4:19 PM.

Initial reports indicated that the smoke was a result of ‘brake binding’ in the fourth general compartment of the train which lead to the false alarm about a fire. The confusion led to a stampede. Passengers pulled the emergency chain and jumped off the train, and were then hit by the Karnataka Express.

In the aftermath of the accident, eight ambulances from the Maharashtra government’s 108 ambulance service were deployed to the site. A railway rescue van also arrived to assist. A helpline was set up at the District Magistrate’s office to assist with queries.

Government Response

The incident prompted expressions of grief and condolence from high-ranking officials. Both Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Home Minister Amit Shah shared their sympathies via posts on X (formerly Twitter). Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families.

Key Points

• The incident occurred on January 22, 2025, involving the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express near Jalgaon.
• Sparks from the train’s wheels after braking triggered a panic among the passengers.
• False information regarding a fire on the train caused many to jump from the train onto adjacent tracks.
• The passengers were hit by the Karnataka Express travelling on the parallel track.
• The incident led to at least 12 fatalities and several injuries.
• Emergency services were dispatched to the site, and a helpline was established.
• High-level government officials expressed their condolences.

This incident highlights the dangers of panic and misinformation and underscores the importance of clear and accurate information during emergencies.