Special Correspondent
Mumbai: A tragic incident involving the Pushpak Express led to the death of 13 passengers, who were crushed by the speeding Karnataka Express after jumping off their train. The chaos ensued following rumors of a fire, reportedly started by a teaseller shouting in panic.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar provided detailed insights into the incident. He explained that on January 21, 30-year-old Udal Kumar from Shravasti district in Uttar Pradesh was traveling to Mumbai on the Pushpak Express with his brother-in-law Vijay Kumar. The duo was on their first journey to Mumbai in search of employment and was traveling with general class tickets, seated on upper berths.
According to Ajit Pawar, “While traveling, a teaseller in the pantry coach shouted, ‘Fire! Fire!’ Hearing this, panic spread throughout the compartment. Udal and Vijay heard the commotion, and chaos broke out among the passengers. Fearing for their lives, some passengers jumped off the moving train. However, the train’s speed made it impossible for them to land safely.”
A quick-thinking passenger pulled the emergency chain, halting the train. As passengers began to disembark, the Bengaluru-New Delhi Karnataka Express, traveling at high speed, struck several individuals attempting to cross the tracks.
Ajit Pawar added, “Thirteen passengers lost their lives in this horrific accident. Among them, 10 have been identified, while the identities of three are yet to be confirmed. Both Udal Kumar and Vijay Kumar were injured and are currently receiving treatment. The incident was triggered by unfounded rumors, causing this unfortunate disaster.”
The Deputy Chief Minister also assured that the injured are being treated at government expense. He emphasized the need for caution to avoid such incidents in the future.
