Sun Feb 16 03:11:45 UTC 2025: **New Delhi Railway Station Stampede Kills 18, Injures Many**

NEW DELHI – A devastating stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night claimed the lives of at least 18 people and left numerous others injured. The incident, which occurred around 10 pm on platforms 13 and 14, was triggered by severe overcrowding caused by thousands of Maha Kumbh devotees attempting to board trains.

Victims included nine women, five children, and four men, with ages ranging from seven to 79. The injured are receiving treatment at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital and Lady Hardinge Hospital. Initial reports indicate that the overcrowding led to suffocation, with several passengers fainting amidst the chaos.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as passengers rushed to board trains, some carrying children and luggage. Videos circulating online show the overwhelming crowd surging through the station. The situation was exacerbated by delays to several trains, including the Prayagraj Express, Swatantrata Senani Express, and Bhubaneshwar Rajdhani. Authorities confirmed that approximately 1,500 general tickets were sold, contributing to the uncontrollable crowd.

Emergency responders, including the Delhi Fire Services, ambulances, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), were swiftly deployed to the scene. The Northern Railways dispatched four special trains in response to the unprecedented rush.

In the aftermath, clothes, shoes, and other belongings were strewn across the platforms, highlighting the intensity of the incident. Authorities have launched a high-level inquiry into the tragedy.

The Indian Railways announced compensation for the victims’ families: Rs 10 lakh for families of those killed, Rs 25 lakh for the seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh for those with minor injuries.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena expressed sorrow and ordered authorities to address the situation. Outgoing Chief Minister Atishi visited the injured at LNJP Hospital, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh issued statements of condolence. The incident has prompted widespread grief and calls for improved crowd management at the railway station.

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