Railway Station Stampede in New Delhi Claims 15 Lives Amid Kumbh Mela Rush

In India’s capital, a chaotic scene unfolded on Saturday when surging crowds at a railway station created a fatal stampede. At least 15 people lost their lives as they struggled to board trains headed to the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj—a major religious gathering that occurs every 12 years and draws millions of Hindu devotees.

Authorities confirmed that most of the fatalities were due to hypoxia, with some potential blunt force injuries still pending confirmation via autopsy. Eleven others suffered injuries, primarily of an orthopedic nature, and are reported to be in stable condition. The incident has brought sharp focus on the challenges of managing the colossal influx of pilgrims for the event.

Key political figures expressed their concern over the tragedy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his condolences and wished the injured a swift recovery. In response to the growing crisis, local authorities and disaster management teams have been mobilized, while railway officials introduced additional special trains to facilitate smoother travel for the devotees. The Kumbh Mela, spanning six weeks and being the most significant event in the Hindu religious calendar, has seen an astronomical number of visitors since its commencement last month, underscoring the immense logistical challenges involved.