Delhi police explain how two similar train names triggered panic at New Delhi railway station

The Delhi Police have revealed the cause behind the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station that claimed 18 lives. According to officials, confusion created by similar train names and an announcement regarding a train’s arrival at Platform 16 led to chaos and panic among passengers, triggering the disaster.

The police stated that an announcement about the arrival of the ‘Prayagraj Special’ at Platform 16 caused widespread confusion, as another train with a similar name, ‘Prayagraj Express,’ was already stationed at Platform 14. Passengers, unable to reach Platform 14 in time, mistakenly believed their train was arriving at Platform 16. The rush to switch platforms, combined with heavy luggage and overcrowding, resulted in a devastating stampede.

Four trains, overcrowding, and chaos

According to Delhi Police, four trains bound for Prayagraj were scheduled to depart, three of which were delayed. This led to an unprecedented surge of passengers between Platforms 12 and 16, adding to the commotion.

Northern Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay addressed the incident, explaining that the tragedy began when a passenger slipped on the foot-over bridge between Platforms 14 and 15. This triggered a domino effect, causing others behind to fall. Upadhyay dismissed claims of platform changes, asserting that special trains were added to accommodate increased crowds during the Maha Kumbh Mela. He also emphasized that train operations remained under control and that there were no cancellations.

Scale of the tragedy

On Saturday, a massive influx of passengers traveling to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh Mela resulted in a stampede, leading to the deaths of 18 people and injuring dozens more. The victims included nine women, five children, and four men. The oldest victim was 79 years old, while the youngest was a seven-year-old girl.

Overcrowding and ticket sales surge

Reports indicate that hundreds of passengers were waiting on Platform 14 to board a train to Prayagraj. Simultaneously, a large crowd had gathered on Platform 13 for the Swatantrata Senani Express, which was bound for Darbhanga. However, due to delays, the train was rescheduled to depart at midnight, forcing passengers to wait on the platform for extended hours. The sale of additional tickets further intensified the overcrowding, leaving passengers with little space to stand, ultimately contributing to the chaos.

Compensation announced

On Sunday, Delhi Police confirmed that they had initiated an investigation into the incident. CCTV footage is being analyzed to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the tragedy. In response, the railway authorities announced compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased, ₹2.5 lakh for those severely injured, and ₹1 lakh for passengers with minor injuries.