Synopsis
Following the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, which resulted in multiple fatalities, the government has taken action against the Divisional Railway Manager. An investigation is underway to determine the causes and ensure accountability while providing compensation to victims' families.Key Takeaways
- 18 fatalities reported from stampede.
- Government implements compensation measures.
- Investigation committee formed.
- Delays in train schedules cited as contributing factor.
- Minister expresses deep condolences.
New Delhi, March 4 (NationPress) The consequences of the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station last month have begun, as the government has removed the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Delhi, according to an official statement made on Tuesday.
The incident, which occurred on February 15, was triggered by an overwhelming crowd eager to board trains to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh festivities on platforms 14 and 15, resulting in the loss of 18 lives.
In response, the Railways has announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of those who died, Rs 2.5 lakh for seriously injured passengers, and Rs 1 lakh for those with minor injuries.
The Railway Ministry previously set up a two-member committee to investigate the tragic incident.
This committee, consisting of Narsingh Deo, PCCM/Northern Railway, and Pankaj Gangwar, PCSC Northern Railway, has been tasked with securing video evidence from platforms 14 and 15, where the stampede occurred.
The committee also conducted an inspection of the site and collected witness statements to compare with CCTV footage.
According to sources, the committee is also looking into whether rumors caused passengers to move between the two platforms, which led to overcrowding on the staircase of platform 14.
The stampede occurred during a period when numerous railway stations in northern and eastern India were struggling to manage crowds heading to the Maha Kumbh Mela.
The chaos was exacerbated by a sudden increase in passengers seeking to catch weekend evening trains to the holy city.
DCP Railway K.P.S. Malhotra attributed the main cause of the stampede to a surge in passengers during delays of two trains.
Prior to the incident, the Railways claimed that special trains were being operated to manage the unexpected influx at New Delhi Railway Station, with four special trains deployed to handle the massive rush.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav expressed his sorrow over the loss of life in the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My prayers are with all those who have lost their loved ones. The entire team is working to assist all those who have been affected by this tragic incident.”
