Railways to Take Action Against Individuals Responsible for New Delhi Station Incident: Ramdas Athawale
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Synopsis
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale expressed condolences for the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. He emphasized the need for increased vigilance to prevent future incidents, announced a compensation scheme, and stated that an inquiry is underway to hold accountable parties responsible.
Key Takeaways
- Ramdas Athawale expresses deep regret over the stampede.
- The Railway Minister has ordered an inquiry into the incident.
- Compensation announced for victims' families.
- Increased vigilance is essential to prevent future tragedies.
- At least 18 lives were lost and many injured.
New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) Union Minister Ramdas Athawale conveyed profound sadness regarding the stampede that took place at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday evening. In a conversation with IANS, Athawale emphasized the necessity for the administration to enhance vigilance to avert such occurrences in the future.
Athawale remarked: "A tragic incident occurred at New Delhi Railway Station, and we express our condolences over it. It is indeed a very regrettable event. A similar scenario unfolded earlier in Prayagraj when the railway administration opted to operate special trains for public convenience. Upon the announcement, individuals rushed in excitement, leading to chaos and ultimately the accident."
He continued: "In this unfortunate incident, several lives were lost, and many sustained injuries. I firmly believe that the administration must implement greater precautions to prevent such tragedies. The railway minister has acknowledged this incident and assured that stringent measures will be taken against those found accountable. Our Railway Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, is proactive and responsible. He has initiated an inquiry into the matter, and actions will be taken against any officials deemed at fault."
Athawale also addressed the opposition's calls for the Railway Minister's resignation, stating: "The opposition persistently demands the minister's removal, but I find this inappropriate. The minister has already mandated a comprehensive investigation, and decisive action will be taken against responsible parties. Dismissing the minister will not solve the issue. We must all approach this matter with composure. Our lives are priceless, and we must avoid jeopardizing them."
Additionally, he noted that the Railway Ministry has declared a compensation of 10 lakh rupees for the families of those who perished and stated that the railway administration must prioritize preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
At least 18 individuals, including five children, lost their lives and more than a dozen were injured in the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night, triggered by a sudden influx of passengers eager to board trains for Prayagraj, where the Maha Kumbh Mela is currently taking place.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Railways organized special trains to alleviate crowd pressure on the platform and instituted a high-level inquiry into the occurrence.
The Railways also revealed a compensation scheme of 10 lakh rupees for the families of the deceased, 2.5 lakh rupees for those seriously injured, and 1 lakh rupees for those with minor injuries.
