Jalgaon Rail Tragedy: 12 Lives Lost as Pushpak Express Collides with Karnataka Express

Synopsis

A devastating rail accident in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals, including a child, when the Pushpak Express was struck by the Karnataka Express. The state government has promised financial aid and free medical treatment for the injured.

Key Takeaways

12 fatalities reported in Jalgaon rail accident.
Involvement of Pushpak Express and Karnataka Express.
Maharashtra government pledges Rs 5 lakh for victims' families.
Immediate medical assistance being provided to the injured.
Rescue operations coordinated by local officials.

Jalgaon (Maharashtra), Jan 22 (NationPress) A tragic incident occurred on Wednesday when the passengers of Pushpak Express were struck by the Karnataka Express, resulting in the loss of at least 12 lives, comprising eight men, three women, and a 10-year-old child, in Pachora taluka of Maharashtra's Jalgaon district.

The collision happened on the railway tracks between Mahiji and Pardhade stations, as passengers had exited their coaches due to suspicions of a fire on the train.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, currently attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, announced a financial aid of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the victims.

The Chief Minister emphasized that he instructed the Jalgaon district administration to ensure that the injured receive medical aid at no cost.

In a statement on X, Fadnavis expressed: "The heart-wrenching loss of lives in this unfortunate event near Pachora in Jalgaon district is profoundly saddening. I extend my condolences. My colleague Minister Girish Mahajan along with the Superintendent of Police have reached the scene, and the District Collector is en route. The district administration is collaborating with the railway authorities to facilitate immediate medical support for the injured.

Eight ambulances have been dispatched, and both the general hospital and nearby private medical facilities are prepared to treat the wounded. Essential emergency tools such as glass cutters and floodlights are also on standby. We are actively monitoring the situation and providing all necessary assistance promptly. I am in constant contact with the district administration.

Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan has arrived at the accident site to oversee the rescue and relief efforts.

The Jalgaon district administration has established four control rooms located in Jalgaon, Bhargaon, Pachora, and Bhusaval. Moreover, a team from the Indian Medical Association is coordinating with medical professionals at the district hospital and other nearby healthcare facilities.

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde stated that directives have been issued to ensure that the injured are promptly transported to hospitals for appropriate care.

Ajit Pawar, another Deputy Chief Minister, also paid his respects to the deceased.

"The district administration was contacted to gather information on the incident. Immediate assistance and free medical care for injured passengers were arranged. Minister Girish Mahajan is on-site, and the district administration, alongside the District Collector and Superintendent of Police, is undertaking rescue and relief operations at a rapid pace.

"The district and railway administrations are working together on the rescue and relief efforts, which will continue through the night. Necessary equipment, including glass cutters and floodlights, have been dispatched to the accident site," he added.