The sudden cancellation of two Prayagraj trains led to a stampede-like situation at the New Delhi Railway station, resulting in 15 deaths and several injuries late on Saturday night. The incident occurred when many tried to board available trains for the Maha Kumbh festival.
A high-level probe has been ordered into the incident.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences. “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 authorities are assisting all those who have been affected by this stampede.,” he wrote.
According to a Railway Ministry statement, there was a sudden surge in passengers, which caused ”panic” and led to passengers fainting amid the “unprecedented rush situation.”
- Read: Maha Kumbh Mela tragedy: 30 devotees killed, 60 injured in stampede at Sangam
Railway stations in most parts of India are witnessing a massive influx of pilgrims due to the ongoing Maha Kumbh.
According to data released by the Uttar Pradesh government, over 92.10 lakh devotees took a dip in the Sangam until 2 p.m. Saturday, while devotees taking a dip at Maha Kumbh have crossed 500 million people.
- Read: Maha Kumbh footfall crosses 50 crore-mark, more than combined population of US and Russia
In a post on X, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said: “The entire team is working to assist all those who have been affected by this tragic incident.”
He added that special trains were used to evacuate this unprecedented sudden rush at New Delhi station. The rush has now reduced.
Ambulances outside the New Delhi railway station after a stampede-like situation occurred, Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025. (
| Photo Credit: PTI
In a third post on X, the Minister wrote: “Situation under control at New Delhi railway station (NDLS) Delhi Police and RPF reached. Injured taken to hospital. Special trains being run to evacuate sudden rush.”