Mon Feb 17 16:20:34 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Railway Station Stampede Kills 18, Prompts Nationwide Overhaul of Crowd Control

**New Delhi –** A stampede at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) on Sunday claimed the lives of 18 people and injured 15 more, prompting the Indian Railways Ministry to announce a nationwide overhaul of crowd control measures. The incident occurred on platforms 13 and 14, exacerbated by delays to three trains, including a special service to the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage in Prayagraj, and the simultaneous sale of approximately 1,500 general category tickets.

The Ministry cited overcrowding as the primary cause, with the influx of Kumbh Mela devotees adding to the existing pressure. Eyewitnesses reported conflicting accounts of the stampede’s trigger, with some claiming a rumour about a platform change, while railway officials attributed it to passengers falling from a footbridge.

In response to the tragedy, the Railways Ministry will implement a six-month campaign focusing on enhanced crowd monitoring technology, colour-coded crowd management systems, and improved crisis management training for railway officials. Sixty high-traffic stations, including 35 directly connected to Prayagraj, will receive special attention. A centralized “war room” will monitor crowds at these 35 stations in real-time. New Delhi’s stations will see significant upgrades, including over 200 new CCTV cameras. The sale of platform tickets at NDLS will also be temporarily suspended for seven hours daily.

Delhi Police has deployed six experienced officers to enhance crowd management at NDLS, and the Railway Protection Force’s presence has been increased. The Ministry stressed that no trains were cancelled, and there were no platform changes on Sunday. The investigation continues.

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