Fire Rumor Triggers Train Tragedy in Maharashtra, Killing 13

Passengers panicked after a false fire alarm on the Pushpak Express, leading to fatalities when another train struck those who disembarked.

A tea seller's false claim of a fire on the Pushpak Express caused panic, prompting passengers to pull the emergency chain and disembark near Jalgaon.
Thirteen passengers, including individuals from Nepal and Uttar Pradesh, were killed when the Karnataka Express struck them on an adjacent track.
Railway officials stated that passengers had approximately 20 minutes to move to safety after the Pushpak Express halted, but many remained on the tracks.
The Maharashtra government announced ₹5 lakh compensation for each victim's family, while the Railways offered additional ex-gratia payments to the deceased and injured.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need for improved safety protocols and emergency communication systems on trains.