Details
12 Dead After Jumping Off Train Over Fire Rumor, Getting Hit By Another
January 22, 2025
In a tragic incident, twelve people lost their lives after jumping off a moving train in response to a false rumor about a fire onboard. The victims were struck by another train traveling on an adjacent track. The accident occurred late Monday night near the town of Balasore in the Indian state of Odisha.
What Happened?
According to local officials, panic erupted among passengers aboard the express train when someone shouted that a fire had broken out in one of the compartments. Alarmed by the announcement, dozens of passengers rushed to escape, opening doors and jumping off the moving train.
Tragically, twelve passengers landed on another track where an oncoming train struck them. Several others sustained injuries and were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities Respond
Railway officials have confirmed that no fire was found on the train upon inspection. The panic is believed to have been caused by smoke from an overheated wheel bearing, which is a common but non-threatening occurrence.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives in this horrific accident. There was no fire on the train, and the situation was entirely avoidable had passengers not panicked,” said a senior railway official.
Investigation Underway
The railway police have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the source of the false alarm and whether there was any negligence in handling the situation.
Calls for Better Safety Measures
The tragedy has sparked renewed discussions about passenger safety on Indian trains, which serve millions daily. Critics are urging authorities to implement better communication systems and passenger awareness programs to prevent such incidents in the future.
Support for the Victims
The government has announced compensation for the victims' families, with a payment of ₹500,000 ($6,000) for each deceased and free medical treatment for the injured.
This incident highlights the devastating consequences of panic in crowded settings, underscoring the need for calmness and proper information dissemination during emergencies.