Mon Feb 17 05:52:29 UTC 2025: ## 15 Dead in Stampede at Delhi Railway Station Amid Kumbh Mela Rush

**NEW DELHI** – Fifteen pilgrims died and another 15 were injured in a stampede at New Delhi’s main railway station on Saturday, officials confirmed. The incident occurred as large crowds of devotees attempted to board trains headed to the Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Delays in train services, according to local media, contributed to the swelling crowds at the station, ultimately leading to the tragic stampede. The Ministry of Railways attributed the incident to a “sudden surge in passengers,” stating that some individuals fainted, triggering panic and rumors of a stampede. The ministry has since deployed extra trains and announced compensation for victims’ families and the injured.

Delhi’s caretaker chief minister, Atishi, confirmed the casualties and injuries to reporters. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences via social media and stated that authorities are providing assistance to those affected. An investigation into the incident has been ordered by the country’s Minister for Railroads, Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The Kumbh Mela, which began in mid-January and concludes later this month, is expected to draw over 400 million people this year. This year’s event, a Maha Kumbh, is larger than usual due to a rare celestial alignment. The festival, held every three years in one of four Indian cities, sees devotees bathe in the sacred confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers, believing it washes away sins.

The incident highlights the recurring challenges in managing the massive crowds at the Kumbh Mela. Previous stampedes at the event have resulted in significant casualties, including 30 deaths last month and 42 deaths in 2013 at Prayagraj’s train station.

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