Sun Feb 16 01:40:26 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Railway Station Tragedy: 18 Dead in Maha Kumbh-Related Stampede

**New Delhi, February 16, 2025** – At least 18 people, including 11 women and four children, died Saturday night in a tragic incident at New Delhi Railway Station. The incident, initially described as a stampede, occurred around 8 pm on platforms 14 and 15 due to overcrowding caused by delays in two trains bound for Prayagraj, a major destination for the ongoing Maha Kumbh festival.

According to officials, the delays led to a surge of passengers attempting to board trains to Prayagraj, resulting in a chaotic rush and several fatalities. Ten women, three children, and two men died at LNJP Hospital, with three additional deaths reported at Lady Harding Hospital. Videos circulating online show a massive crowd and individuals lying unconscious amidst the throng.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that the situation is under control, stating that Delhi Police and Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel were deployed, injured individuals were transported to hospitals, and special trains were arranged to manage the influx of passengers. He also urged the public to disregard rumors.

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their deep condolences to the victims’ families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena initially described the event as a stampede and loss of life, but later revised his statement to remove these terms. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his grief over the incident.

The Railways has launched an inquiry into the incident. The large crowds are attributed to the Maha Kumbh festival, which is drawing massive numbers of devotees. Similar incidents of overcrowding and passenger frustration have been reported at other railway stations in Bihar in recent days.

Opposition figures have criticized the government’s handling of the situation. Former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi condemned the chaos, while Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called for an extension of the Maha Kumbh to alleviate the pressure on the railway system. The Maha Kumbh is scheduled to conclude on February 26th.

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