New Delhi:
At least 18 people, including 11 women and four children, died after a huge stream of passengers caused by two delayed trains and a special Express train to Maha Kumbh led to a rush at the New Delhi train station on Saturday evening. More than a dozen people were also injured in the incident and are treated in nearby hospitals.
The incident took place around 9.55 pm and led to an emergency aid from the authorities.
The Ministry of Spoorwegen has ordered an investigation into the “unfortunate” incident and formed a high -level two -part committee to investigate the matter.
What led to the Stormloop?
Delays in train deviations and the sale of around 1500 general tickets have worsened the situation and contributed to the overwhelming crowd, officials said.
According to the police, platforms number 13 and 14 were already busy at New Delhi train station, because many people were waiting for two trains – Swatantrata Senani and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani – that were delayed. In the midst of this, a special train for Maha Kumbh, the Brayagraj Express, would leave at 10:10 pm from platform number 14.
When the time for the train to pray, more and more people started to gather on the platform, which contributed to the existing crowds. During this time, more than a thousand general tickets were purchased by passengers to go to Maha Kumbh, officials said.
Moreover, a rumor also spread among people who would arrive on a different platform.
This led to the passengers pushing each other and ran to the stairs, which caused a rush.
A wave of similar incidents recently took place because special trains have been organized for the Maha Kumbh – a grand festival only once every 12 years. Earlier this week, some passengers broke the glass windows of the Watantrata Senani Express at the Madhubani train station – which goes via Prayagraj to Delhi – after they were unable to board the train.
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President, PM Modi Express sorrow
President Droupadi Murmu said she was deeply tormented to know about the loss of lives in a rush at New Delhi train station. “I extend my sincere condolences to the affected families and pray for quick recovery of the wounded,” she said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has caused the loss of life and placed on X, “Droised by the Stampede at the New Delhi train station. My thoughts are for anyone who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the wounded have a quick recovery. The authorities have The authorities.
Delhi Lieutenant -Governor VK Saxena called the incident “unhappy” and “tragic” and expressed sorrow about the loss of lives. “My deepest participation in the families of victims of this tragedy. I spoke with Chief Secretary & Police Commissioner and asked to tackle and restore the situation,” he said.
