New Delhi Railway Station Stampede: 18 Dead Amid Allegations of Administrative Negligence

A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night (February 15) resulted in the deaths of 18 people, including three children. The chaos unfolded around 9:55 PM on platforms 14 and 15 as thousands gathered to board the Prayagraj Express. Overcrowding worsened due to delays of the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Express, leading to a deadly rush near an escalator. The injured were taken to LNJP and Lady Hardinge hospitals.Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered a high-level investigation and stated that four special trains were deployed to manage the unexpected surge of passengers. However, concerns of administrative negligence have surfaced, with reports indicating that excessive ticket sales contributed to the crisis. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena have expressed condolences, with authorities assuring strict disaster management measures. Emergency teams continue relief operations as the investigation unfolds.