Overcrowding at New Delhi Railway Station left four women unconscious due to suffocation as thousands of Maha Kumbh devotees gathered on platforms, triggering panic among passengers.
At least 15 people were killed, and many others were injured after a stampede followed severe overcrowding at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night, officials said. The incident occurred around 10 pm on platforms 13 and 14, as thousands of Maha Kumbh devotees gathered to board their trains, leading to panic among passengers.
Multiple videos have surfaced showing a massive crowd of passengers rushing through the railway station — some carrying children on their shoulders, while others struggle with their luggage amidst the chaos.
According to initial reports, overcrowding resulted in severe suffocation, leaving four female passengers unconscious. Their condition was reported to be critical, and they were immediately rushed to the Lok Narayan Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital for medical treatment.
Officials said that Delhi Fire Services received an emergency call and promptly dispatched four fire tenders to the affected railway station. Additionally, ambulances were sent to the spot to assist with the situation.
The overcrowding and commotion led to speculation of a stampede-like situation at New Delhi Railway Station.
“When Prayagraj Express was standing at platform no. 14, lots of public were present at the platform. Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneshwar Rajdhani were delayed, and passengers of these trains were also present at platform no. 12,13 and 14. As per the information, 1500 general tickets were sold – that’s why the crowd became uncontrollable. There was a stampede-like situation at platform no. 14 and near the escalator near platform no. 1,” Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Railway, KPS Malhotra said.