Stampede at New Delhi railway station kills 18, injures over a dozen

A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night claimed the lives of at least 18 people, including 11 women and five children, while more than a dozen others sustained injuries. The chaos erupted as passengers rushed to board trains bound for Prayagraj ahead of the Maha Kumbh 2025.

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According to the Ministry of Railways, a high-level inquiry has been initiated to investigate the incident. Officials reported that the stampede occurred on platform number 14, where the Prayagraj Express was stationed. Additionally, passengers waiting for the delayed Swantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneshwar Rajdhani Express contributed to the overcrowding on platforms 12, 13, and 14.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a swift recovery for the injured. "The authorities are assisting all those affected," he stated on X.

The Railways has named two senior officials, Narsingh Deo and Pankaj Gangwar, to lead the inquiry. The committee has ordered the preservation of all station video footage for investigation.

Most of the injured suffered lower limb and bone fractures, with many receiving treatment at LNJP Hospital before being discharged. A team of 15 doctors remains on standby.

New Delhi MLA Parvesh Verma visited the injured and assured them of administrative support, reaffirming solidarity with the victims and their families.