Sun Feb 16 19:52:19 UTC 2025: ## New Delhi Railway Station Stampede Leaves 18 Dead, Dozens Injured

**New Delhi –** Eighteen people died and numerous others were injured in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday evening, February 15th. The incident, which occurred between 9:30 pm and 10:15 pm on platform 14, was reportedly caused by a confluence of factors including delayed trains, overcrowding, and alleged insufficient crowd control by railway authorities.

According to police and eyewitness accounts, a large number of passengers had gathered on platform 14 to board trains heading to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela. The situation was exacerbated by delays to the Swatantra Senani Express and Delhi-Bhubneshwar Rajdhani Express, further swelling the crowds on platforms 12, 13, and 14. Approximately 1500 general tickets were sold hourly, adding to the congestion. Announcements for a special Prayagraj train departing from platform 16 added to the confusion, prompting a rush towards that platform, even as the foot overbridge and escalators were already overflowing.

Eyewitnesses allege that despite the growing crowd, which began to build around 9 pm, railway and GRP personnel failed to implement adequate crowd control measures. One passenger, Sanjay, whose sister perished in the stampede, stated that he and his family were on the platform for an hour before the tragedy, witnessing the escalating chaos without any intervention from authorities. He recounted desperate attempts to save his sister, only finding her after half an hour and ultimately failing to revive her.

The stampede primarily occurred on the stairs and escalators connecting the platforms, leaving many trapped and injured. The Delhi Fire Service received its first call at 9:55 pm. Police have released a list of the deceased and initiated inquest proceedings, while railway authorities are conducting a separate inquiry into the incident. While misinformation is suspected as a contributing factor, the full extent of its role will be determined in the investigation.

The tragedy left families distraught and searching for information about loved ones at hospitals across the city. The incident underscores concerns about safety and crowd management at major railway stations during peak travel times.

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