NEW DELHI: At least 15 people were killed and several others injured in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station late Saturday night. The incident unfolded when a massive crowd gathered following the announcement of a special train for the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Within 15-20 minutes, chaos erupted as passengers surged forward, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported that the crowd surge 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 sudden surge. This sparked rumours of a stampede, leading to further panic.
The Northern Railways CPRO, however, initially denied that a stampede had occurred, calling it a “rumour.” Despite this, authorities confirmed multiple casualties and injuries, prompting an emergency response.
PM Modi expresses grief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the incident. In a post on X, he said, “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.”
Rescue and response efforts
Following the incident, the Delhi Fire Service received an emergency call, and four fire tenders were deployed to the station. Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and Delhi Police officials assisted in evacuating injured and fainted passengers, who were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
Authorities have since brought the situation under control. DCP Railway KPS Malhotra stated that the rush had subsided and confirmed that the unexpected crowd surge was the primary reason behind the chaos. Further investigations are underway to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the tragedy.
Railway minister orders high-level probe
Railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced a high-level investigation into the incident. In response to the massive crowd, he also confirmed that four special trains were arranged to manage the unexpected rush, with additional trains on standby.
In a post on X, Vaishnaw said, “4 special trains to evacuate this unprecedented sudden rush at NDLS. The rush has now reduced.”
While the railway minister denied reports of a stampede, Union defence minister Rajnath Singh referred to the incident as one in his message.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh reacts
Defence minister Rajnath Singh expressed condolences on social media, saying, “Devastating news from New Delhi Railway Station. I am extremely pained by the loss of lives due to the stampede on the railway platform. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the bereaved families. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.”