At least 18 people, including nine women, five children, and four men, lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries following a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night. The incident was triggered by overcrowding as thousands of Maha Kumbh pilgrims gathered to catch their trains.

The injured were promptly taken to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital and Lady Hardinge Hospital for treatment. The oldest victim was a 79-year-old individual, while the youngest was a seven-year-old girl.

On Sunday, Indian Railways announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased, Rs 25 lakh for those critically injured, and Rs 1 lakh for individuals with minor injuries.

Railway officials stated that the tragic episode unfolded around 10 pm at platforms 13 and 14, where a sudden surge in passengers caused some to collapse, sparking panic and rumors of a stampede. This led to widespread confusion and distress. Authorities later brought the situation under control by dispersing the crowd. Four special trains were deployed to manage the unexpected rush, and a high-level investigation has been ordered.

Footage from the scene revealed a chaotic atmosphere, with passengers hurriedly moving through the station. Some were seen carrying children on their shoulders, while others struggled to manage their luggage.

Preliminary accounts indicated that overcrowding led to suffocation, causing four women to lose consciousness. They were quickly taken to LNJP Hospital, where their condition was described as critical.

Emergency services responded swiftly. Delhi Fire Services dispatched four fire tenders, ambulances were deployed, and a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) unit arrived to support rescue operations.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Railways, KPS Malhotra, explained that the congestion occurred as the Prayagraj Express was stationed at platform 14. Passengers were also waiting for the delayed Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani on platforms 12, 13, and 14. Approximately 1,500 general tickets had been sold, overwhelming the platforms and resulting in the crowd surge near the escalator on platform 1.

After the stampede, personal belongings such as clothes, shoes, and bags lay scattered across the platforms, reflecting the intensity of the disorder. Eyewitnesses recounted how the situation escalated rapidly, leading to injuries and fatalities.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena expressed his sorrow over the tragedy and directed officials to manage the situation effectively. He extended his condolences to the victims' families and assured that necessary steps were being taken.

Outgoing Chief Minister Atishi visited the injured at LNJP Hospital and confirmed that two Aam Aadmi Party MLAs were present to assist. She added that several injured individuals were expected to be discharged soon.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his grief and offered prayers for the injured, emphasizing that authorities were providing support to those affected. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed his sadness, offering condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a swift recovery for the injured.