New Delhi: A tragic incident at New Delhi railway station on Saturday night led to the deaths of at least 18 people, including 11 women and four children, after overcrowding triggered by delays in two trains bound for the Maha Kumbh.
The chief casualty medical officer at LNJP Hospital confirmed the deaths, with ten women, three children, and two men reported dead at the scene. Three additional deaths were recorded at Lady Harding Hospital.
The Indian Railways has launched an inquiry into the incident and announced financial compensation for the victims’ families—Rs. 10 lakh for those who died, Rs. 2.5 lakh for those severely injured, and Rs. 1 lakh for those with minor injuries. The victims were primarily from Bihar (9), Delhi (8), and Haryana (1). Railway officials will also assist the victims’ families in returning home.
According to the eyewitnesses, the overcrowding began around 8 PM on platforms 14 and 15, where passengers were waiting for trains to Prayagraj. The situation worsened when delays to the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneshwar Rajdhani led to an influx of passengers on platforms 12, 13, and 14. The Prayagraj Express, already stationed on platform 14, further contributed to the congestion.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Railways), KPS Malhotra, explained that the station sold 1,500 general tickets, exacerbating the crowding. This led to a stampede-like situation, particularly near platform 14 and the escalator by platform 1.
In the aftermath, disturbing images of scattered belongings, including clothes, shoes, and slippers, highlighted the chaos. The railway administration deployed additional security and four fire engines to manage the situation.
Both President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have expressed their condolences following the tragedy.
