16 Lives lost in devastating stampede at overcrowded New Delhi railway station

New Delhi: A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night left at least 16 people dead and 15 others injured as massive crowds gathered to board trains bound for the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. The chaos unfolded on platforms 14 and 15, where thousands of passengers struggled to secure seats on departing trains.

Overcrowding leads to disaster

The stampede occurred at around 9:55 PM when an overwhelming surge of passengers attempted to board trains heading to one of the world's largest religious gatherings. The situation was exacerbated by multiple train delays and cancellations, leaving platforms dangerously overcrowded.

Victims include children

Officials confirmed that among the deceased were three children, highlighting the devastating impact of the tragedy. Delhi’s acting Chief Minister, Atishi, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the families of those affected.

Train delays worsen the crisis

Railway authorities stated that congestion began building on platform 14, where the Prayagraj Express was scheduled to depart. Meanwhile, the Swatantrata Senani Express and the Bhubaneshwar Rajdhani, both bound for Prayagraj, faced delays, further contributing to the disorder.

Eyewitness accounts reveal chaos

"As per CMI, every hour 1,500 general tickets were sold by railways due to which the station got overcrowded and became uncontrollable. There was a stampede at platform no. 14 and near escalator near platform no. 16," the deputy commissioner of police (railways) said. Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes of passengers pushing and shoving, struggling to breathe amid the suffocating crowd.

Leaders express grief

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his condolences, stating, "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." Authorities have assured all possible assistance to those impacted.

Investigation and relief measures

In response to the catastrophe, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered a thorough inquiry and directed the deployment of four special trains to manage the heavy rush at the station.