Representaional Photo
TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 16, 2025: In response to the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station yesterday, Northern Railway has implemented new measures to enhance safety and manage the overwhelming rush of passengers traveling to Prayagraj for the Mahakumbh. Special trains to Prayagraj will now depart from platform 16, with passengers instructed to enter and exit via the Ajmeri Gate to minimize congestion and avoid platform overcrowding.
To maintain order during peak hours, additional personnel from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) have been deployed. These forces are guiding passengers to their designated platforms and ensuring smooth operations at the station. By 7 PM today, Northern Railways had operated four special trains, including one heading to Darbhanga via Prayagraj, to accommodate the growing number of devotees. An additional special train is scheduled to depart at 9 PM, with five more special trains planned for tomorrow, February 17, to further alleviate the pressure on the station.
The tragic stampede that occurred on February 15 prompted Indian Railways to issue an urgent appeal to the public to avoid rumors and to strictly follow official announcements regarding platform changes. Passengers are urged to cooperate with railway authorities to ensure the smooth functioning of train services during this busy period.
Ex-Gratia and Support for Victims’ Families
In the aftermath of the stampede, Indian Railways has acted swiftly to support the victims and their families. An ex-gratia payment of Rs. 10 lakh has been provided to the families of the 18 deceased, while Rs. 2.5 lakh has been given to those critically injured and Rs. 1 lakh to those with minor injuries. In a compassionate gesture, railway personnel have assisted the families of the deceased, accompanying them to their homes and participating in the last rites.
A two-member high-level committee has been set up to investigate the incident. The committee, comprising Shri Pankaj Gangwar, Principal Chief Security Commissioner, and Shri Nar Singh, Principal Chief Commercial Manager of Northern Railway, has already begun its work to determine the causes and prevent future occurrences.
For ongoing support, the Indian Railways Helpline (139) continues to provide assistance to passengers, receiving over 130 calls regarding the incident by 5 PM today.
