Jalgaon (Maharashtra), Jan 22 (NationPress) A tragic incident has claimed the lives of at least eight to ten individuals, with numerous others sustaining injuries after the Pushpak Express collided with the Karnataka Express in the Pachora taluka of Jalgaon district in North Maharashtra.

The collision occurred at approximately 5 p.m. on the railway line between Mahiji and Pardhade stations. Passengers had exited their coaches due to concerns over a suspected fire on the train. Railway officials and emergency personnel have arrived at the scene.

Panic ensued at Paranda railway station after rumors spread regarding a fire on the Pushpak Express.

The Pushpak Express, traveling from Lucknow to Mumbai, came to a stop after passengers activated the emergency chain. Simultaneously, the Karnataka Express, en route from Manmad to Bhusawal, was approaching on an adjacent track.

Eyewitness accounts describe the chaos that erupted when sparks were seen from the wheels of the Pushpak Express as it halted near Paranda station. The rumor of a fire quickly spread, inciting panic among passengers. Some individuals jumped from the train, inadvertently stepping into the path of the approaching Karnataka Express.

The Jalgaon SP confirmed the tragic fatalities and injuries, stating, "Several passengers leaped off the train due to fire rumors. Regrettably, they were struck by the Karnataka Express coming from the opposite direction."

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, currently attending the World Economic Forum in Davos, expressed his sorrow on X, saying, "The tragic incident resulting in the loss of lives near Pachora in Jalgaon district is deeply distressing. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the victims. My colleague Minister Girish Mahajan and the Superintendent of Police have reached the site, with the District Collector en route. The entire district administration is collaborating with the railway authorities to provide immediate care for the injured. Eight ambulances have been dispatched, and both the general hospital and nearby private hospitals are prepared to treat the injured. Emergency tools such as glass cutters and floodlights are also on standby. We are monitoring the situation closely and providing all necessary assistance promptly. I am in contact with the district administration."

Jalgaon District Guardian Minister Gulabrao Patil mentioned that the incident transpired near Pardhade village. "While some reports suggest the accident occurred while crossing the railway tracks, others indicate that passengers jumped off the train due to fire rumors. The provincial officer and the collector are expected to arrive in 15 to 20 minutes. However, it will be challenging to provide accurate information until someone arrives at the scene," he added.

Jalgaon District Collector Ayush Prasad stated that the Central Railway Control Room reported an accident involving the Karnataka Express, resulting in eight to ten individuals injured and dead on the scene. Following this, the district administration promptly dispatched ambulances. Provincial officials and police officers have also arrived, with senior railway officials engaged in relief efforts post-accident. Prasad noted that assistance is being sought from three hospitals – a rural hospital, a private hospital, and a government medical college. All patients are being treated at these facilities.

"Preliminary information indicates that approximately eight to ten individuals were reportedly deceased. Official figures are yet to be confirmed. Our immediate priority is to provide care to the injured," he added.