New Delhi, February 16: At least 18 people, including three children, lost their lives in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station Saturday night, with several others injured.
Reports suggest that the tragedy unfolded as a massive crowd had gathered following the announcement of a special train for the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage in Prayagraj. Within minutes, panic ensued as passengers surged forward, leading to multiple casualties.
According to reports, the chaos was triggered by the delay of two trains, which led to an unexpected influx of passengers. As people rushed to board the special train, the situation spiralled out of control, with some passengers fainting amid the commotion., reports news agencies.
PM Modi Expresses Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his grief over the incident, stating 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 that the injured have a speedy recovery. The authorities are assisting all those who have been affected by this stampede.”
Emergency services responded swiftly, with the Delhi Fire Service dispatching four fire tenders to the station. Personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Delhi Police aided in evacuating injured passengers, who were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered a high-level investigation into the incident. To manage the unexpected rush, four additional special trains were arranged, with more on standby. In a post on X, Vaishnaw stated, “4 special trains to evacuate this unprecedented sudden rush at NDLS. The rush has now reduced.”
