Mon Feb 17 01:41:40 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Railway Station Stampede Kills 18, Including Children, Amid Maha Kumbh Rush

**New Delhi, India** – A deadly stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night claimed the lives of 18 people, including five children, and injured over a dozen more. The tragedy unfolded on foot-overbridges connecting platforms 14 and 15 as thousands of passengers surged to board trains headed to Prayagraj for the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela.

Initial reports suggest the stampede was triggered when several passengers slipped while descending the foot-overbridge, causing panic and a deadly crush. Contributing factors are believed to be train delays, the sale of approximately 1,500 general tickets per hour, and potential confusion due to conflicting platform announcements. Eyewitnesses described a scene of utter chaos, with people desperately trying to board already overcrowded trains.

Among the victims were three members of a single family from Bihar who had traveled to Delhi to attend the religious festival. Footwear, clothing, and personal belongings of the victims were scattered across the station after the incident.

Following the tragedy, security has been heightened at other major railway stations, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, anticipating continued high passenger volume for the Maha Kumbh. The Uttar Pradesh government is coordinating with railway authorities to manage the crowds and ensure safe passage for devotees.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident and established a two-member committee to investigate potential lapses. The committee is reviewing CCTV footage and collecting witness statements. The Delhi Police have also initiated an inquest proceeding.

The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Opposition parties have demanded the resignation of the Railway Minister, citing mismanagement and a failure to implement adequate crowd control measures. Several state chief ministers have expressed condolences and announced financial aid for the victims’ families. The Railway Ministry has announced measures to alleviate congestion, including designating a specific platform for all special trains to Prayagraj. However, even with these measures in place, New Delhi Railway Station remains overcrowded.

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