A devastating event at a railway station in India’s capital has resulted in at least 18 fatalities, following a stampede as massive crowds surged to board trains bound for the Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious assembly, as reported by officials.
Tragedy Strikes During Kumbh Mela
Taking place every 12 years in Prayagraj, this Hindu pilgrimage attracts tens of millions of devotees.
Unfortunately, it has a history of crowd-related tragedies.
For instance, just last month, an alarming incident near the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers claimed the lives of 30 individuals.
The chaos erupted on Saturday at the Delhi station, where throngs of people scrambled to catch trains to the ongoing Kumbh Mela, which will run until February 26.
Among the deceased were ten women and three children, highlighting the tragedy’s tragic reach.
Casualties and Medical Response
Dr. Ritu Saxena, the deputy medical superintendent at Lok Nayak Hospital in Delhi, relayed that 15 of the injured passed away at the hospital.
Remarkably, none had visible external injuries, suggesting that most likely succumbed to complications like hypoxia or blunt force trauma, as investigations continue.
In total, 11 others were reported injured; however, many were stable, mostly suffering from orthopedic issues.
According to NDTV, an official from another medical facility confirmed that the death toll had increased to 18.
A porter at the railway station, who has been a coolie since 1981, commented on the unprecedented size of the crowd, stating he had never seen anything like it.
The situation escalated as passengers jostled for position, pushing one another and falling down escalators and stairs after the platform for a special train was unexpectedly moved.
Government Response and Historical Context
In light of this tragedy, India’s Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that a thorough investigation would be initiated to ascertain what led to the chaos.
He also noted that efforts were underway to arrange additional special trains to accommodate the influx of pilgrims.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his condolences via social media, offering prayers for the bereaved families and wishing for the swift recovery of the injured.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his sorrow over the tragic loss and extended his heartfelt thoughts to the grieving families, also wishing for the quick healing of the wounded.
Vinai Kumar Saxena, the governor of Delhi, stated that disaster management teams had been activated, ensuring that all medical facilities were prepared for any emergencies.
The Kumbh Mela, lasting six weeks, holds great significance for the Hindu faith.
Since it began last month, officials report that around 500 million devotees have participated in the festival.
This event is not without its dark history; in 1954, a stampede claimed the lives of over 400 people, and in 2013, 36 individuals lost their lives during the festival’s last occurrence in Prayagraj.
Such tragedies remind us of the complexities involved in managing vast gatherings where faith and fervor converge.
Source: The guardian
