Maha Khumbh: Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station Leaves 18 Dead, Several Injured

New Delhi, February 16, 2025 – A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday claimed the lives of at least 18 people, including 11 women and four children, while over a dozen others sustained injuries. The incident occurred as a massive crowd rushed to board trains heading to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh.

High-Level Inquiry Initiated

The Ministry of Railways has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Railway), platform number 14 was heavily crowded when the Prayagraj Express arrived. Simultaneously, delays in the Swantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneshwar Rajdhani Express resulted in passengers from platforms 12 and 13 also converging at the same location, exacerbating the situation.

Leaders Express Condolences

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. "Distressed by the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My thoughts are with those who lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. Authorities are providing all necessary assistance," he posted on X.

President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her grief, stating, "Deeply anguished to learn about the loss of lives in the stampede. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and I pray for the quick recovery of the injured."

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called the incident "heartbreaking" and offered prayers for the victims and their families. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also extended their condolences.

Financial Aid Announced

A financial relief package has been announced for the victims' families. The government will provide Rs 10 lakh to the families of the deceased, Rs 2.5 lakh to those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh to those with minor injuries.

Eyewitness Accounts

A witness, an Indian Air Force (IAF) sergeant, described the chaotic scene, saying, "The crowd was massive, and despite efforts by officials to manage it, people did not heed warnings. I tried to assist the injured along with a friend."

Another witness said, "The crowd was beyond the limit. I have never seen such a massive gathering at the railway station, even during festivals."

Political Reactions

Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav urged the Uttar Pradesh government to consider extending the Maha Kumbh duration, citing the overwhelming number of devotees attempting to reach Prayagraj.

Former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi criticized the central and Uttar Pradesh governments for failing to ensure proper arrangements for the massive influx of devotees. "Neither the Centre nor the Uttar Pradesh government has made adequate arrangements for devotees travelling to Prayagraj. The railway department must step up assistance immediately," she posted on X.

Government Actions and Investigation

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who visited the injured at LNJP Hospital, assured that the situation at the station was now under control. "The injured are receiving medical treatment, and train services have resumed normal operations. Delhi police are managing the crowd," he stated.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw expressed his condolences and assured that a two-member high-level committee has been formed to investigate the incident.

Home Minister Amit Shah confirmed that he has spoken with the railway minister and Delhi authorities, directing them to provide all necessary support to those affected. "My condolences to the families of the deceased. The injured are receiving the best possible medical care. Wishing them a speedy recovery," he posted on X.

The Road Ahead

As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to review crowd management strategies at major railway stations, especially during large-scale religious gatherings. Meanwhile, the families of the victims mourn their loss as the nation comes to terms with this unfortunate tragedy.