Maha Kumbh Rush: 18 Dead, Over Dozen Injured In Delhi Railway Station Stampede
A stampede at the New Delhi Railway Station amid a rush of passengers heading to the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj resulted in 18 deaths and numerous injuries. The incident occurred on Saturday night on platforms 14 and 15, where a large crowd had gathered to board trains.
At least 18 people died, including 11 women and 4-5 children, and more than a dozen were injured. The injured were admitted to LNJP Hospital and RML Hospital in Delhi.
The stampede was triggered by a sudden surge of passengers trying to board trains to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh. Some reports suggest the announcement of a special train and delays of other trains may have contributed to the chaos.
An Air Force official stated that the crowds were unmanageable despite announcements and efforts to control the situation. Another eyewitness mentioned that the crowd came from both sides after an announcement about a platform change.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident and arranged four special trains to manage the crowds. The Railway Board formed a two-member committee to investigate the cause of the stampede.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and offered condolences. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his condolences.
Entry to the railway station was temporarily blocked to regain control of the situation.
