New Delhi: In response to the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night, Indian Railways has announced financial compensation for the victims and their families. The incident resulted in the loss of at least 18 lives, including 14 women, and left over a dozen individuals injured.
According to an official release, the compensation details are as follows:
- Families of the Deceased: ₹10 lakh each
- Seriously Injured Individuals: ₹2.5 lakh each
- Individuals with Minor Injuries: ₹1 lakh each
The stampede occurred around 10 PM on Saturday when a massive crowd gathered at the station to board trains heading to the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The overwhelming number of passengers led to overcrowding, which escalated into a stampede, particularly near platforms 14 and 16.
In the aftermath, Delhi Police have initiated an investigation into the incident. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the station to determine the sequence of events that led to the chaos. Additionally, the entry gate of Lok Nayak Jaiprakash Narayan Hospital, where victims were taken, remains barricaded as part of the ongoing inquiry.
This tragic event has prompted discussions about crowd management and safety protocols at major transportation hubs, especially during large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh Mela. Indian Railways and local authorities are expected to implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.