Railways announce compensation for those killed in stampede at New Delhi Railway Station

The stampede occurred on platforms 14 and 15, where thousands of passengers had gathered to board trains bound for Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, for Maha Kumbh Mela.

The Indian Railways on Sunday announced compensation for the victims of the tragic stampede at the New Delhi Railway Station, which left at least 18 dead and more than a dozen injured late Saturday night.

The families of those who lost their lives will receive Rs 10 lakh each, while those seriously injured will be given Rs 2.5 lakh. Passengers who sustained minor injuries will receive Rs 1 lakh, the Railways said in a statement.

The stampede occurred on platforms 14 and 15, where thousands of passengers had gathered to board trains bound for Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, for the Maha Kumbh Mela. Witnesses and officials suggest overcrowding, confusion over train platform changes, and last-minute announcements may have triggered the chaos.

Delhi Police has launched an investigation into the stampede, with CCTV footage being analysed to determine what triggered the tragedy.

“Our primary focus is to establish the cause of the stampede. We will review CCTV footage, platform announcements, and crowd management measures in place at that time,” a senior police official said.

DCP Railways KPS Malhotra admitted that authorities anticipated heavy footfall but were unable to control the rush. “It all happened in a matter of moments. A fact-finding inquiry will be conducted by the Railways, and the exact reason behind the incident will be determined,” he said.

Meanwhile, authorities have deployed additional security personnel at the railway station and hospitals where the injured are being treated. The Railways has assured that corrective measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.