New Delhi, Feb 16, (V7N) - In a heartbreaking tragedy on Saturday, at least 18 people, including 11 women and 4 children, lost their lives in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. The incident occurred at around 8:00 PM local time on platforms 14 and 15, as thousands of passengers rushed to board trains for the Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in India.
 
The chaos was triggered by delays in the arrival of two trains bound for Prayagraj, which led to overcrowding and panic among passengers. The massive influx of people created a dangerous situation, and the stampede resulted in fatalities and numerous injuries.
 
Casualties and Treatment: According to the authorities, 10 women, 3 children, and 2 men were declared dead at LNJP Hospital. Another 3 individuals passed away at Lady Harding Hospital. The injured have been rushed to various hospitals across the city for treatment, with several in critical condition.
 
The Ministry of Railways has already ordered a full investigation into the incident. A compensation package has been announced for the victims' families. Families of the deceased will receive 10 lakh rupees, the critically injured will receive 2.5 lakh rupees, and those with minor injuries will be compensated with 1 lakh rupees.
 
Government Reactions: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, offering condolences to the families of the deceased and wishing a speedy recovery for the injured. In a post on the social media platform X, he stated, "I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives. My thoughts are with the affected families during this difficult time. The administration is with them."
 
President Droupadi Murmu also expressed her condolences, sending heartfelt sympathy to the families of the deceased and wishing the injured a speedy recovery.
 
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw condemned the incident and assured the public that a high-level inquiry would be conducted to determine the cause and to prevent such events in the future.
 
Increased Security and Measures: Delhi's Lieutenant Governor expressed his grief on the social media platform X, extending his condolences to the families of the victims and calling for swift action by the police and other authorities. He instructed the Chief Secretary and Police Commissioner to take immediate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers at the station.
 
The tragic incident has prompted calls for better crowd management at the station, especially during such large-scale events. The Railway Department has been urged to review and enhance safety protocols to avoid similar incidents in the future.
 
This devastating event is a reminder of the urgent need for improved infrastructure, crowd control, and emergency management procedures, particularly at major transport hubs like New Delhi Railway Station.

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