Baseless Rumors Spark Jalgaon Train Tragedy, Maharashtra Govt to Cover Medical Expenses, Says Ajit Pawar in Pune

Reported By Varad Bhatkhande
Today, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Ajit Pawar was on a Pune tour to oversee various developmental projects. During the visit, he spoke to the media and addressed yesterday’s Jalgaon train accident tragedy, where 13 people have been confirmed dead and more are injured. Ajit Pawar said this incident happened due to baseless rumours which could have been avoided. He also stated that the government would provide medical treatment to all injured.
The Jalgaon train accident involved two trains: the Mumbai-bound Pushpak Express from Lucknow and the Karnataka Express travelling from Bengaluru to Delhi. Passengers on the Pushpak Express panicked due to rumours of a fire, causing some to pull the emergency chain and jump onto adjacent tracks. The Karnataka Express then struck these passengers, resulting in 13 deaths and at least 15 injuries. The incident occurred yesterday around 5 PM near Pachora between Maheji and Pardhane Railway Stations in Jalgaon District. Officials confirmed there was no actual fire on the Pushpak Express.
At the Pune Circuit House, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar provided details to the media, saying, “The government took immediate action as soon as the incident occurred. This unfortunate event unfolded when Udal Kumar, a 30-year-old resident of Uttar Pradesh, visited Mumbai for the first time on January 21st. He was accompanied by his brother-in-law, Vijay Kumar. Both had general tickets.”
He continued, “Chaos erupted when tea vendors started shouting ‘There’s a fire! There’s a fire!’ Some passengers began jumping from the train due to panic, but the high speed made it difficult for everyone to do so. Someone pulled the emergency chain, bringing the train to a halt. As passengers were exiting the train, another express train on a nearby track collided with many citizens, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. Udal Kumar and Vijay Kumar are among the injured.”
Pawar added, “Thirteen people have died, with ten bodies identified. Three bodies are severely damaged, making identification challenging – these include two men and one woman. This incident was solely caused by rumours. The government will cover all medical expenses for the injured.”
Pawar emphasized that the tragedy was a result of misinformation and panic, rather than an actual fire. He assured that the authorities are providing all necessary assistance to the victims and their families.