Train fire rumour claims 4 lives in Morena:Passengers jump in panic and get hit by another rail

An incident unfolded on the Khajuraho–Udaipur Intercity Express after a rumour of a mobile phone explosion and fire spread among passengers. The panic reportedly led to chain pulling, forcing the train to stop between Hetampur and Dhaulpur stations around 4:15 PM on Sunday. In the chaos, several passengers got off the train in fear. Shortly after, four passengers were hit by another passing train and died on the spot. Railway authorities have ordered a high-level investigation into the incident. Victims’ bodies scattered, remains collected for post-mortem Officials said the impact of the accident was so severe that body parts of the deceased were scattered over a stretch of nearly 500 metres. The remains had to be collected and packed for post-mortem procedures. The deceased have been identified as: Railway officials confirm rumour led to chain pulling Jhansi Division PRO Manoj Kumar Singh stated that a passenger falsely spread panic by claiming that a mobile phone had exploded and caused a fire inside the train. This led to chain pulling and passengers rushing out of the train in panic. He added that a six-member committee has been formed to inspect the site, record statements of railway officials and eyewitnesses, and submit a report on the basis of which further action will be taken. Investigation team formed, compensation assured Railway administration has ordered a high-level probe into the incident. Officials confirmed that the committee will examine how the rumour spread and whether safety lapses contributed to the tragedy. Authorities have also assured financial assistance to the families of the deceased. Rescue operation launched after farmer alerts police The accident came to light after a farmer, who had gone into the forest to collect wood, informed the police. At that time, local police teams from Sarai Chhola and Civil Lines were already nearby taking action against illegal sand dumping. They immediately rushed to the spot and informed railway officials. Rescue and recovery operations were launched soon after. Victim family en route to pilgrimage return journey According to a co-passenger, Birma Devi was returning to Jaipur after visiting Bageshwar Dham along with relatives and neighbours when the rumour spread inside the train. Passengers panicked and jumped off the train, leading to the fatal accident. Officials promise support and strict action Morena Superintendent of Police Dharmraj Meena and District Collector Yogesh Kumar Jangid visited the accident site. The SP assured that all possible assistance would be provided to the affected families. Police completed post-mortem examinations during the night and handed over the bodies to relatives. Railway Protection Force (RPF) officials noted that chain pulling incidents are frequently reported between smaller stations in the region, but the exact cause and responsibility will be determined after the official railway investigation.