Sun Feb 16 07:20:38 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Railway Station Stampede Kills 18 Amidst Maha Kumbh Rush
**New Delhi, India** – At least 18 people, mostly women and children, died in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station late Saturday night. The incident occurred as thousands of pilgrims flocked to the station to board trains to Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, for the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela.
The stampede, which took place around 10 pm on platforms 12, 15, and 16, caused significant chaos. Eyewitnesses reported a surge in crowd numbers well beyond usual levels. While railway authorities deny any platform changes or train cancellations, conflicting reports suggest a rumour about a platform change may have triggered the panic. Northern Railway’s CPRO Himanshu Upadhyay stated that some individuals falling from a foot-over bridge contributed to the incident.
Following the tragedy, additional police were deployed to manage the crowds and ropes were used to control the flow of passengers. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident, appointing two high administrative officials to investigate and secure all available video footage. The inquiry committee will focus on determining the exact causes of the stampede.
The families of those killed will receive compensation of ₹10 lakh (approximately $120,000 USD) each, while those seriously injured will receive ₹2.5 lakh, and those with minor injuries will receive ₹1 lakh.
The incident highlights the immense strain placed on the railway system due to the massive influx of devotees traveling to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela. Millions have visited the holy city since the festival began on January 13th, leading to significant congestion in Prayagraj and surrounding areas. The Kumbh Mela is scheduled to continue until February 26th.
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