Confusion Over Train Names Leads to Tragic Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station

A devastating stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night claimed the lives of at least 18 people, including five children, and left many others injured. The tragic incident unfolded around 8 p.m. as thousands of Hindu pilgrims were trying to board trains to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh festival. The victims ranged in age from seven to seventy-nine, with a majority being women.

According to Delhi Police, the chaos was triggered by the similarity in names of two trains—Prayagraj Express and Prayagraj Special. An announcement about the arrival of the Prayagraj Special at Platform 16 led many passengers, who were supposed to board the Prayagraj Express at Platform 14, to rush in the wrong direction. This confusion, combined with delays in other trains heading to Prayagraj, caused an uncontrollable surge of passengers, resulting in a fatal stampede.

Eyewitnesses recounted the sheer panic among the crowd as the last-minute changes in platform announcements added to the disorder. The station was already overcrowded with devotees eager to reach Prayagraj, making it difficult for authorities to manage the situation effectively.

Following the incident, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered an inquiry to investigate the root causes of the disaster. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and assured that necessary steps would be taken to prevent such mishaps in the future.

This tragic event highlights the urgent need for better crowd management and clearer communication at railway stations, particularly during major religious gatherings like the Maha Kumbh festival, which draws millions of pilgrims from across the country. Authorities are now under pressure to implement safety measures to avoid such tragedies in the future.