Delhi cops say similar train names led to deadly stampede
What's the story
At least 18 people were tragically killed in a stampede at the New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night. The incident took place around 10:00pm as thousands of devotees congregated to board trains to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh 2025 festival. Eyewitnesses said overcrowding and confusion over train platforms added to the chaos that triggered the stampede.
Incident details
Police clarify cause of stampede at New Delhi Railway Station
However, the Delhi Police have clarified that the confusion stemmed from the announcement that the Prayagraj Special train would arrive at Platform 16, while the Prayagraj Express was already stationed at Platform 14. This prompted passengers to mistakenly rush toward Platform 16, triggering a stampede. Further, delays in other trains bound for Prayagraj worsened the overcrowding.
Official statement
Railway official denies platform change, confirms train schedules
Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay, CPRO Northern Railway, said, "Trains were not canceled, and the platform was not changed. All trains have been running as per its schedule." Nevertheless, eyewitnesses said a last-minute platform change announcement sent passengers into a tizzy. An Indian Air Force sergeant, who was present at the scene, said managing the crowd was difficult as people didn't follow instructions.
Investigation launched
Railways forms committee to investigate stampede incident
The Railways has constituted a two-member high-level committee to probe the incident. The committee comprises Narsingh Deo and Pankaj Gangwar of Northern Railway. They have been assigned the task of securing video footage from the station for their probe. Among the victims were 11 women and four children, with many injured people suffering lower limb and bone injuries.
Response
Authorities acknowledge crowd management challenges
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Railways KPS Malhotra admitted authorities expected a huge crowd but said, "We expected congestion, but it happened so quickly that the situation became unmanageable." Railway Board's Dilip Kumar said four special trains were introduced to handle the rush, but congestion went out of control. As investigations continue, authorities are under fire for crowd management at one of India's busiest railway stations.