Delhi Railway Station: Stampede Claims 18 Lives, Several Injured
A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday (February 15) night claimed the lives of 18 people, while many others sustained injuries and are currently undergoing treatment. The Delhi Police and Railway Administration have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. However, initial reports suggest that the stampede occurred due to an overwhelming crowd gathered at the station to travel to the Kumbh Mela.
Following the incident, the central government has taken immediate steps to manage the increasing crowd. In response, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Delhi Police have been deployed at New Delhi Railway Station. According to sources cited by India Today, the government has taken this decision to control the rising passenger surge during the Mahakumbh Mela.
To prevent similar incidents, Indian Railways has planned to establish holding zones at over 60 major railway stations across the country to manage passenger flow more effectively. Additionally, advanced technology, including AI-based crowd monitoring, will be used for crisis management, especially during train delays. Local officials will also undergo specialized crisis management training to enhance safety measures.
How Did the Stampede Happen?
The death toll from Saturday night’s tragic stampede has risen to 18, including 11 women and five children. Several others sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment. The Delhi Police and Railway Administration have begun a thorough investigation into the exact cause of the incident.
Preliminary reports suggest that the stampede broke out around 10 PM when passengers, confused by train announcements, rushed toward platform 16 using a narrow staircase, leading to chaos. The Railway Ministry has set up a high-level committee to investigate the incident. Authorities will review CCTV footage and other relevant documents, and an official inquiry report is expected to be submitted soon.
As a relief measure, the Railways has announced compensation for the victims:
- ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased
- ₹2.5 lakh for those seriously injured
- ₹1 lakh for those with minor injuries
Authorities are now focused on implementing stricter crowd control measures to ensure such tragedies do not happen again.
