Delhi Police Assign Six Officers at NDLS for Crowd Control

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Delhi Police Assign Six Officers at NDLS for Crowd Control

Synopsis

In response to the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, the Delhi Police have deployed six inspector-rank officers to enhance crowd control and ensure safety as the Kumbh Mela pilgrimage continues.

Key Takeaways

  • Six officers deployed to NDLS for crowd management.
  • Officers selected based on operational experience.
  • Stampede resulted in 18 fatalities, including children.
  • Authorities anticipate increased passenger influx.
  • Investigation ordered by Union Railway Minister.

New Delhi, Feb 17 (NationPress) Just two days after the unfortunate occurrence that took 18 lives, the Delhi Police have assigned six inspector-rank officers to the New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to improve crowd management and ensure passenger safety.

These officers, selected from various districts, were specifically chosen for their expertise in managing operations at the New Delhi Railway Station, which is one of the busiest transit points in the nation.

A few of these officers have previously served as Station House Officers (SHOs) at the station, equipping them with a profound understanding of the logistical and security challenges presented by large crowds.

With the ongoing Kumbh Mela pilgrimage resulting in a higher influx of passengers, authorities expect the increase to continue in the forthcoming days. This deployment is part of a strategy to facilitate crowd movement and prevent any unfortunate incidents, especially with the final major snan of the Kumbh approaching on February 26 during Shivratri.

The Maha Shivratri snan on February 26 is projected to attract a significant number of devotees heading to Prayagraj for a sacred dip in the Ganges.

On Saturday night, a stampede at the station resulted in the deaths of at least 18 people, including five children, and left over a dozen injured. This tragedy occurred due to a sudden influx of passengers waiting to board trains to Prayagraj. The incident happened on the foot-overbridge linking platform numbers 14 and 15, where some passengers lost their footing while descending, causing panic and a deadly crush.

In response, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered an investigation and established a two-member high-level committee to examine the lapses. Following the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, other stations across the country have also initiated emergency measures.

Meanwhile, devotees continue to flock to Prayagraj at the Triveni Sangam to partake in the sacred dip.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reported that around 1.49 crore devotees took a holy dip at the Sangam on Sunday.