Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 16: Following the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday, which resulted in the deaths of 18 people and left many others injured, Central Railway has announced the operation of four special trains for pilgrims heading to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh festival.
In an effort to ensure smooth travel for devotees, authorities have made additional arrangements at the originating stations of the special trains. Central Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO), Swapnil Nila, spoke to ANI, saying, “Different arrangements have been made for passengers, including additional ticket booking counters, ‘May I Help You’ booths, and continuous public announcements at the stations. Central Railway will run four trains for Maha Kumbh.”
Nila also added that additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) staff, along with railway operating and commercial department personnel, have been deployed. “We request passengers to buy valid tickets and board the trains according to the instructions, maintaining an orderly line for everyone’s convenience,” he said.
The stampede at New Delhi Railway Station occurred when a passenger lost balance and slipped on the stairs leading to platforms 14 and 15, causing a chain reaction that left several others injured, according to the Northern Railway CPRO.
In the aftermath of the incident, the Indian Railways has formed a two-member committee to investigate the tragedy. The committee, which consists of Narsingh Deo, Principal Chief Commercial Manager (PCCM), and Pankaj Gangwar, Principal Chief Safety Commissioner (PCSC), has initiated a High-Level Inquiry (HAG). As part of the investigation, the committee has ordered the securing of all video footage from the station to assist in the probe.
The incident took place at around 10 p.m. on Saturday when large crowds of devotees were heading to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh 2025 festival, leading to overcrowding at the station. The victims of the stampede were identified as Aaha Devi (79), Pinky Devi (41), Sheela Devi (50), Vyom (25), Poonam Devi (40), Lalita Devi (35), Suruchi (11), Krishna Devi (40), Vijay Sah (15), Neeraj (12), Shanti Devi (40), Pooja Kumar (8), Sangeeta Malik (34), Mamta Jha (40), Riya Singh (7), Baby Kumari (24), and Manoj (47).
In response to the tragedy, the Indian Railways has announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased. Additionally, compensation of Rs 2.5 lakh has been announced for those seriously injured, and Rs 1 lakh for those with minor injuries.