Sun Feb 16 05:24:49 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 five children, died in a tragic incident at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night. The incident, initially described as a stampede, resulted from overcrowding caused by delays in two trains bound for Prayagraj, a major destination for the ongoing Maha Kumbh festival.
The chaos unfolded around 8 pm on platforms 14 and 15 as passengers rushed to board trains. Delays to the Swatatantra Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani, both of which also serve Prayagraj, contributed to the surge in passengers at the platforms. Videos circulating online show a massive crowd and desperate attempts to board the already-full Prayagraj Express. Reports also indicate jostling near escalators.
The deceased, comprising nine from Bihar, eight from Delhi, and one from Haryana, were confirmed by the chief casualty medical officer of LNJP Hospital in Delhi and Lady Harding Hospital. The Indian Railways has announced financial assistance of ₹10 lakh for the victims’ families, ₹2.5 lakh for those severely injured, and ₹1 lakh for those with minor injuries. They have also deployed personnel to accompany those who lost family members back to their hometowns.
The incident prompted immediate responses from top officials. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed their condolences and concern. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the situation was under control and that special trains were being run to alleviate the overcrowding. Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena initially described the event as a stampede and a tragedy, later modifying his statement. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his sorrow.
The railways have launched an inquiry into the incident. LNJP Hospital released helpline numbers (+919873617028 and 011-23501207) to assist those affected.
The large influx of devotees attending the Maha Kumbh, which ends on February 26th, has been blamed for the increased pressure on the railway system. Similar incidents have been reported at other stations in Bihar, highlighting the logistical challenges posed by the massive pilgrimage. Politicians, including former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, have commented on the incident, with Yadav suggesting an extension of the Maha Kumbh to ease the pressure. The event has raised serious questions regarding crowd management and safety protocols at major railway stations during peak periods.
First Piper 