At least 12 people were killed by a train in western India after a rumor caused panic, DPA reported, quoted by BTA.
Several people panicked and jumped from a train onto a neighboring track and were hit by a passing train. At least 12 passengers died, NDTV and other Indian media reported.
The passengers jumped from the "Pushpak Express" train after hearing rumors of a spreading fire. Someone pulled the emergency brake and the train stopped. Panic broke out, although the rumors turned out to be false.
Authorities believe that 12 people have died, NDTV reported.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life in an unfortunate accident near Pachora in Jalgaon district,“ wrote the head of the Maharashtra state government Devendra Fadnavis on the social network “Ex”.“I express my deepest condolences to the affected families”.
He said that a minister and the police chief were already at the scene of the accident.
Rescuers are tending to the injured, DPA added.
It was initially unclear how many people were traveling in the “Pushpak Express” during the incident.