On Saturday night at the New Delhi Railway Station, a routine night marred by tragedy unfolded as a sudden crush claimed the lives of at least 18 people and left many injured. The busy hub, a typical sight in India's capital, was exacerbated by overcrowding, particularly due to delays of trains and the impending Kumbh Mela, a massive Hindu religious festival occurring in Prayagraj.
The fatal incident reportedly initiated when a passenger slipped on an overhead bridge, causing a domino effect of chaos. Eyewitness accounts highlight the chaotic scenes, with individuals trapped on staircases and platforms. Bipin Jha tragically recalled watching his wife, Mamta, die before his eyes amidst the crowd, leaving him tormented with guilt. Seema, another witness, described the suffocating conditions as people fell over one another in a wave of panic.
Despite the known risks of overcrowding at public events, families and family members were outraged at the perceived negligence of authorities. Umesh Giri, who lost his wife, shared his heartbreak, describing how the crowd spiraled out of control, with some bodies already lying on the ground before help arrived.
Chaos continued at hospitals where the deceased were taken, with families expressing anger over inadequate facilities. Relatives waiting at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital described horrendous conditions, including multiple people being crammed onto single beds. As journalists were barred from entering the hospital, the stories of heartbreak poured outside, with families devastated by the sudden loss.
The incident has prompted an investigation, with officials announcing compensation for victims. Opposition leaders have criticized the government for failing to provide the necessary safety measures during peak times, particularly with large crowds anticipated for religious ceremonies like Kumbh Mela. As families mourn the loss of their loved ones, they are left demanding justice and accountability from the authorities responsible for ensuring public safety.
