Eye-witnesses recall moments of horror after train tragedy in Maharashtra

Eyewitnesses struggled to recount the horror when a train ran over several passengers who rushed out of the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express following rumours of a fire on January 22, 2025, evening.

Eyewitnesses struggled to recount the horror when a train ran over several passengers who rushed out of the Lucknow-Mumbai Pushpak Express following rumours of a fire on Wednesday (January 22, 2025) evening.

At least 13 people lost their lives and 10 were injured.

“It was a horrible scene when I reached there. The body parts of the deceased were scattered all over the place. We called for ambulances. The mortal remains of the deceased were gathered and were sent to hospital. The injured were rushed to nearby hospitals, and are reportedly out of danger. We are taking care of their relatives. The Chief Minister is in constant touch with me,” said Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan, who reached the spot some time after the accident.

Asked about the cause of the panic, he said, “There was no fire, but a rumour spread about it. Someone pulled the chain. Over 200 people deboarded the train because of it,” he told The Hindu from Pachora.

A passenger from Lucknow said panic ensued when a vendor onboard shouted that the train was on fire. “Some passengers immediately pulled the alarm chain, bringing the train to a halt. As soon as it stopped, people began disembarking and running in fear. Tragically, a train on the adjacent track struck those who had stepped down,” he said.

“Only about 40 passengers from three coaches near the engine disembarked. It’s terrifying to think what could have happened if more passengers had done the same,” the witness said.

Another passenger confirmed hearing someone shout about a fire, which led to passengers rushing to get off the train from both sides. “Those who got down on the side of the adjacent track were hit by the other train. I came looking for my friends who had disembarked, but I haven’t been able to find them,” he said in despair.