Train Fire Rumor Triggers Panic in Maharashtra, 13 Dead in Jalagaon Rail Incident
A fatal accident occurred in Jalagaon, Maharashtra, as a rumor of fire on the Pushpak Express caused panic. Passengers jumped off the train, and it collided with another train, killing 13 people. A tea seller is accused of spreading the fire rumor.

On January 22, 2025, a fire reportedly broke out in Pushpak Express which was coming from Lucknow to Mumbai, causing it to halt near Pachora Station in Jalagaon, Maharashtra. There, a rumour spread among passengers that the train was on fire, and panicky passengers began to jump out of the train, where some got hit by an incoming train due to this, which killed 13 people.
The Fire Rumor and Its Devastating Effects
Eyewitnesses claim that the rumor of a fire was spread by a tea vendor on the train. One of the witnesses narrates how the tea seller lied about the train catching fire, thus causing a stampede in the compartments. In a desperate attempt to get out, passengers pulled the chain of the emergency brake, and the train gradually came to a halt. The people jumped from the train without knowing that there were live rails on the ground.
Eyewitness Account of the Disaster
A witness reported that passengers jumped onto the track, where the Bangalore Express was coming, and several were killed. Others jumped to the side with no track, avoiding further casualties. Radhabhindari, daughter-in-law of one of the victims, Kamla Bhandari, described the horrific moment when her mother-in-law told her to stay calm and sleep, but later cried out about a fire. In the chaos, Kamla fell on the adjacent track, where the incoming train killed her.
The Investigation and Aftermath
The government is conducting an investigation to determine the reason behind the accident and the involvement of the tea seller. The sad incident shows the possible dangers brought about by the spread of rumors in high-pressure situations and how they can lead to immediate consequences to public safety.