On February 15th, a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station resulted in the deaths of 18 people, including four children. The incident occurred between 9:30 PM and 10:15 PM on Platform 14. During this time, two major trains, the Swatantrata Senani Express and the Delhi-Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Express, were running late, causing an increase in the number of passengers on the platform.
What Happened That Night?
Several factors contributed to the tragedy. First, it was a weekend, and many passengers were trying to board trains to Prayagraj for the Kumbh Mela. Additionally, an announcement was made at 9:50 PM for a special train to Prayagraj, scheduled to depart from Platform 16. When some passengers who couldn’t board the trains from Platform 14 tried to rush towards Platform 16, a stampede ensued.
Foot overbridges, stairs, and escalators were already packed with people, and many got stuck, creating panic and chaos.
Lack of Administrative Action and Delay in Help
Eyewitnesses reported that no effective crowd control measures were taken by the authorities. Despite the increasing crowd from 9:00 PM onwards, which the railway police and officials were aware of, no timely arrangements were made. Sanjay, who was traveling with his family to Prayagraj, said his sister was among those who died in the chaos. He recalled trying to revive her, but no assistance from the administration came. He added that it took over an hour before any help arrived, and they had to cross another railway track to take her to the hospital.
What Was Done After the Incident?
The Delhi Fire Service was notified of the stampede at 9:55 PM, and rescue operations began. However, the lack of immediate administrative action made the situation even more difficult for the passengers.
This incident raises serious questions about why, despite the railway administration being aware of the increased number of passengers and train delays, no proper crowd management measures were put in place.
