A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night resulted in the loss of at least 18 lives and left several others injured. The incident occurred as thousands of passengers gathered to board trains bound for Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh festival, causing a rush near platforms 14 and 15.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Ministry of Railways announced compensation for the victims’ families, including:
- ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased
- ₹2.5 lakh for those with severe injuries
- ₹1 lakh for those with minor injuries
What Happened?
According to authorities, the stampede occurred around 9:30 PM when the overwhelming surge of passengers caused panic. Travelers descending on the footbridge towards platforms 14 and 15 reportedly lost their balance, leading to a cascade of people falling onto one another.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Delhi Police immediately responded to control the situation, and the fire department deployed four fire tenders to assist in the rescue efforts. The injured were quickly transported to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narain Hospital for treatment.
Political Reactions and Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, writing on X (formerly Twitter), “Distressed by the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”
President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her condolences, and Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured that support was being provided to those affected.
Opposition leaders, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, criticized the government for alleged negligence and mismanagement. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi called for an independent investigation into the systemic failures of Indian Railways.
Investigation Launched
Delhi Police have begun analyzing CCTV footage to pinpoint the exact cause of the stampede. A two-member high-level committee, consisting of senior officials from Northern Railways and the Railway Protection Force (RPF), has been formed to investigate the incident.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor to ensure that all possible assistance is provided to the victims. Chief Minister Atishi also visited the injured at LNJP Hospital.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to implement improved crowd management measures at railway stations to prevent similar incidents during large-scale events in the future.
