A tragic incident in Madhya Pradesh's Morena claimed the lives of four passengers after they jumped from a moving train following rumours of a fire onboard and were subsequently run over by another train on a parallel track.
According to railway officials, panic broke out among passengers after reports spread that a coach had caught fire. Fearing for their safety, several passengers pulled the emergency chain and jumped off the train. In the confusion, four individuals landed on or near an adjacent track, where they were struck by an oncoming train, resulting in their deaths. Authorities said the victims died on the spot. Recent reports indicate the incident involved the Karnataka Sampark Kranti Express, while the passengers were hit by another train moving on the neighbouring line.
Railway and local administration officials rushed to the scene soon after the accident. Rescue teams and police personnel launched an operation, while the injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. An investigation has been initiated to determine how the rumour originated and whether all safety protocols were followed.
Preliminary reports suggest that there was no major fire inside the train, and that panic among passengers may have been triggered by smoke, sparks, or misinformation. Officials have appealed to passengers not to react hastily to unverified rumours and to follow instructions from railway staff during emergencies.
The incident has once again highlighted the dangers of panic during railway emergencies. Senior railway authorities have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that a detailed inquiry will be conducted. Compensation for the victims' families is also expected to be announced following the completion of official procedures.
