Jalgaon Pushpak Train Accident: Latest Updates
A tragic incident involving passengers being struck by a train has come to light in Jalgaon. According to reports, some passengers traveling on the Pushpak Express jumped from the train fearing a fire. Tragically, these passengers were struck by the Karnataka Express, which was passing on the opposite track. The accident resulted in the death of 12 passengers on the spot, while 19 others sustained injuries.
Casualties and Injuries
Gulabrao Patil stated that the bodies of four deceased individuals are in Pachora, while eight have been sent to Jalgaon. Additionally, four people are critically injured and receiving treatment at a private hospital in Vrindavan. According to the District Collector, 12 people have died, four are seriously injured, and 16 have minor injuries. All the injured passengers have been admitted to hospitals in Jalgaon and Pachora. Efforts to identify the deceased and injured are ongoing.
Government Assistance
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh each for the families of the deceased. He also assured that the injured passengers would receive free medical treatment.
Statements from Officials
- Gulabrao Patil: The accident occurred near Pardhade village. Conflicting reports suggest that the incident happened either while passengers were crossing the tracks or due to panic caused by rumors of a fire. Provincial officers and the District Collector were expected to reach the site shortly after the incident.
- District Collector Ayush Prasad: Speaking to ABP Majha, he confirmed that Central Railway’s Control Room reported the accident involving the Karnataka Express. Immediate action was taken to dispatch ambulances to the site, and relief efforts are underway with the help of police and railway officials. Patients are being treated in three hospitals, including a rural hospital, a private hospital, and a government medical college.
Details from Railway Officials
Central Railway CPRO Swapnil Nila explained that the accident was triggered by alarm chain pulling on the Pushpak Express near Pachora station. Some passengers got down from the train and were struck by the Karnataka Express passing in the opposite direction. He noted that initial reports suggested 7 to 8 passengers were injured and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. The Karnataka Express has resumed its journey, and the Pushpak Express will do so shortly after assisting the injured passengers.
Current Priorities
Officials emphasize that the immediate focus is on providing medical aid to the injured and ensuring relief operations are conducted efficiently. The exact cause of the accident will be determined after further investigation.