Deadly Stampede At New Delhi Railway Station: 18 Killed In Rush For Religious Gathering

At least 18 people, including nine women and five children, lost their lives in a tragic crowd crush at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night. The stampede occurred as passengers rushed to board trains heading to the Maha Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, according to local media citing police sources.

The chaos unfolded around 10 p.m. when delays in two train services caused severe overcrowding, Deputy Commissioner of Delhi Police K.P.S. Malhotra told India’s ANI news. “The situation spiraled out of control for about 10 to 15 minutes,” he said.

Many of the victims were devotees traveling to Prayagraj, where the Maha Kumbh Mela is being held. The festival, which spans six weeks, is expected to draw an astonishing 400 million people.

The tragedy comes just weeks after another deadly crowd crush at the gathering itself, highlighting the massive logistical challenges of managing such an enormous event.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident. “I am deeply distressed by this loss of life. My thoughts are with the bereaved families, and I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured,” he posted on X.

Ashwini Vaishnaw, India’s Union Minister of Railways, also conveyed his condolences, stating that emergency measures had been taken. “Four trains were deployed to evacuate passengers, and the situation is now under control,” he said.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the stampede as India grapples with the dangers of massive gatherings and overcrowded transportation hubs.