A crush at New Delhi Railway Station on February 16, 2025, has resulted in at least 15 fatalities and 10 injuries. The incident occurred as thousands of people gathered at the station, coinciding with the Hindu religious festival, Kumbh Mela.
- 15 dead, 10 injured at New Delhi station
- Three deceased were children, ten women
- Prime Minister Modi expresses condolences
- Overcrowding linked to Kumbh Mela festival
- Police struggled to manage large crowd
- Previous crush incident at Kumbh Mela
The crush at New Delhi Railway Station unfolded as a massive crowd congregated for the Kumbh Mela, a significant Hindu festival that attracts millions. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene, with many unable to enter the station due to the overwhelming number of people present. Dr. Ritu Saxena from Lok Nayak Hospital confirmed the casualty figures, including three children and ten women among the deceased.
Key details include:
- 15 confirmed dead, including three children.
- 10 individuals sustained injuries.
- Indian Railways initially dismissed reports of a stampede.
Police reported that the situation became unmanageable for about 10 to 15 minutes due to the sheer volume of people. Delays affected at least two trains, with passengers expressing concern over the safety and order at the station. KPS Malhotra, deputy commissioner of police, noted that while officers were present, the crowd’s size overwhelmed their efforts to maintain control.
This incident follows a recent tragedy at the Kumbh Mela, where dozens died in a similar crush. The recurring nature of such events raises concerns about crowd management during large gatherings in India.
The tragic events at New Delhi Railway Station highlight the dangers of overcrowding during significant public gatherings. As investigations continue, the focus remains on improving safety measures to prevent future incidents.
