15 Fatalities from Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station During Mahakumbh Rush
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Synopsis
On February 16, a tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in the deaths of at least 15 individuals. The incident occurred as a large number of passengers rushed to board trains to Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh Mela. Railway and police officials are currently managing the situation and have deployed additional resources.
Key Takeaways
- 15 people died in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station.
- Chaos ensued as passengers rushed for trains to Prayagraj.
- Railway Minister assured that the situation is under control.
- Additional security forces and fire engines were deployed.
- A high-level inquiry has been ordered into the incident.
New Delhi, Feb 16 (NationPress) At least 15 individuals have lost their lives due to a chaotic stampede at the New Delhi Railway Station, triggered by a large influx of passengers eager to board trains to Prayagraj late Saturday night, as confirmed by officials.
A senior representative from the LNJP Hospital verified the fatalities.
The turmoil began around 8 p.m. on platforms 14 and 15, where travelers were gathered to catch trains heading to the sacred city of Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh Mela.
Officials reported that extra security forces have been dispatched to manage the situation at the New Delhi Railway Station, along with at least four fire engines sent to the scene.
In the midst of the mayhem, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw took to social media to announce that the situation was being controlled.
He stated: "The situation at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) is under control. Delhi Police and RPF (Railway Police Force) are on site. The injured are being transported to hospitals. Special trains are being operated to handle the unexpected surge of passengers," and further added: "A high-level inquiry has been initiated."
Additionally, Delhi Lt Governor V.K. Saxena expressed his sorrow over the tragic loss of lives, stating: "This unfortunate incident has resulted in numerous casualties and injuries due to the disorder and stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the victims."
Saxena mentioned having communicated with the Chief Secretary and Police Commissioner to ensure the situation is addressed promptly. "The Chief Secretary has been instructed to implement DDMA (Disaster Management Authority) protocols and mobilize relief personnel. All hospitals are prepared, and I am closely supervising the operations," he added.
The Northern Railway confirmed the situation was under control, stating: "Heavy passenger flow at New Delhi Station is being managed. Delhi Police and RPF have arrived, and the injured are being treated. Special trains are in operation to assist with the influx of travelers."
Furthermore, a police official reported: "When the Prayagraj Express arrived on platform 14, a considerable number of people were present. The Swatatantra Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani trains, which also stop at Prayagraj, experienced delays, leading to more passengers crowding platforms 12, 13, and 14."
Special trains for the Mahakumbh have been attracting large crowds as the festival nears its conclusion on February 26.
Earlier this week, incidents of unrest were reported at a railway station in Bihar, where passengers broke train windows after missing their boarding opportunity. Similar disturbances have occurred at other stations in Bihar.
