Increase in Passengers Amid Train Delays Causes Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, DCP Reports
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Synopsis
A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in at least 15 fatalities as crowds surged to catch trains for the Maha Kumbh Mela. DCP KPS Malhotra noted that delays of two trains led to the chaos. Authorities are ensuring safety measures to prevent future incidents as special trains continue to operate.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station.
- At least 15 people lost their lives.
- Surge in passengers due to train delays.
- Railway Minister assures public of safety measures.
- Special trains for Maha Kumbh Mela are operating.
New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) A devastating stampede at New Delhi Railway Station late on Saturday night resulted in the loss of at least 15 lives, as a massive crowd rushed to board trains heading to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela.
DCP Railway KPS Malhotra elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, indicating that the primary factor contributing to the stampede was an influx of passengers coinciding with the delays of two trains.
He remarked, "At a certain moment, the train was delayed, and in addition, there were an increased number of tickets purchased for Prayagraj. We had monitored the crowd, and I'm outlining the situation within a specific timeframe—approximately a 10-minute window. The arrival of more individuals during this period, coupled with the two delays, was the core reason for the chaos," stated the DCP.
The event transpired around 8 p.m. on platforms 14 and 15, inciting turmoil and fear among travelers.
Dilip Kumar, Executive Director of Information & Publicity at the Railway Board, commented, "At New Delhi Railway Station, particularly on the Ajmeri Gate side, a significantly larger crowd gathered on Saturday evening than usual, resulting in some disarray while attempting to board trains. Consequently, several individuals fainted, and we promptly transported them to the nearby hospital for adequate medical care."
In reaction to the stampede, Delhi Police and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) were quickly deployed, along with fire engines dispatched to the site.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured the public via social media that the situation was managed, with special trains being operated to accommodate the overwhelming crowd.
Following the incident, authorities are concentrating on ensuring safety and averting further chaos.
Special trains organized by the Railways for the Maha Kumbh are witnessing large crowds as the festival approaches its conclusion on February 26.
