Jalgaon train accident death toll rises to 13; railway ministry announces ex-gratia.

A tragic railway accident near Pachora in Maharashtra’s Jalgaon district claimed 13 lives and left several others injured on January 22, 2025. The incident occurred when passengers aboard the Mumbai-bound Pushpak Express panicked due to a false fire alarm, prompting them to disembark onto the adjacent tracks. Tragically, the Bengaluru-New Delhi Karnataka Express was passing at high speed on the same track, resulting in the fatalities.

Ex-Gratia Announced

The Railway Ministry has promised compensation to the family members of the victims and injured persons:
₹1.5 lakh for the families of the dead
₹50,000 for those grievously injured
₹5,000 for those injured superficially

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ex-gratia of ₹5 lakh for the kin of the dead.

PM Modi and Administration React

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote: “Anguished by the tragic accident on the railway tracks in Jalgaon, Maharashtra. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wish all injured a speedy recovery.”

The Railway Ministry ordered a high-level inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Helpline numbers have been established for families to seek details of their relatives.

Ongoing Investigation
The authorities have launched an inquiry into the cause of the false alarm and measures for prevention of recurrence in the future.

This incident reminded people of the strict safety measures and awareness concerning travel on the railways. Continue to follow this news story for further developments.