Tragic Railway Accident Claims Lives in Maharashtra, India

At least 11 fatalities and five injuries were reported after passengers exited a train due to unverified fire rumors, only to be struck by a passing train.

At least 11 individuals tragically lost their lives and five others sustained injuries following a catastrophic incident in Maharashtra, India. Passengers aboard a Mumbai-bound train exited their carriage amid fears of a fire, prompted by an unidentified individual pulling the emergency cord. Unfortunately, they found themselves on an adjacent track and were subsequently hit by another train traveling in the opposite direction. Initial investigations have yet to confirm if there was any actual blaze on the train.

This calamity emerges as concerns escalate regarding railway safety in India, particularly in light of the government’s recent $30 million (approximately £24 billion) initiative aimed at enhancing rail connectivity. Despite these efforts, the railway system has been plagued by a series of accidents, notably the devastating three-train collision in Odisha earlier this year, which resulted in nearly 300 fatalities.

Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed his condolences via social media platform X, indicating his deep sorrow over the loss of life in this incident, which took place near Pachora in Jalgaon district, approximately 400km from Mumbai. In response to the tragedy, he stated that eight ambulances were dispatched, and hospitals were prepared to assist any injured parties.

This incident poses a significant challenge to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has advocated for railway improvements as a means to stimulate economic development and enhance connectivity across the country. The upcoming budget is expected to propose increased funding for these modernisation efforts, signaling the government’s commitment to improving railway infrastructure and safety measures.