PM Modi expresses condolence for lives lost in New Delhi railway station stampede

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences following the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, which claimed the lives of at least 15 people late on Saturday night.

The incident occurred as a massive crowd of passengers rushed to board trains bound for Prayagraj, where the Maha Kumbh Mela is taking place. The stampede started around 8:00 pm on platforms 14 and 15 of the station, causing chaos and panic among those waiting for their trains.

Prime Minister Modi took to social media to share his sadness over the tragedy, posting on X: "Distressed by the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured have a speedy recovery."

The Prime Minister also reassured the public, stating that authorities are providing assistance to all those affected by the incident.

Security and emergency response in Place

Following the stampede, additional security personnel were deployed to manage the situation, while at least four fire engines were sent to the station. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw posted an update on social media, assuring that the situation was under control. He wrote: "Situation under control at New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS). Delhi Police and RPF (railway police force) reached. Injured taken to hospital. Special trains being run to evacuate sudden rush."

Delhi’s Lt Governor, V K Saxena, also extended his condolences. In a statement, he said: "There has been an unfortunate and tragic incident of loss of lives and injuries due to disorder & stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this tragedy. Have spoken to the Chief Secretary & Police Commissioner and asked them to address and redress the situation."

He continued: "CS has been asked to invoke DDMA (disaster management) measures & deploy relief personnel. All hospitals are in readiness. Have instructed CS & CP to be at the site and take control of relief measures. I am constantly monitoring operations."

Northern Railway also confirmed that the situation at New Delhi Railway Station had been brought under control. In a post on X, they stated: "Situation of heavy rush at New Delhi Station is under control. Delhi police and RPF reached. The injured have been taken to hospital. Special trains are being run to evacuate sudden rush."

This tragic stampede follows earlier incidents at railway stations in Bihar, where passengers, frustrated by overcrowding, broke glass windows after failing to board trains. Similar reports of disturbances have emerged from other stations in Bihar.

Agency