Back2 dead, 8 hurt in stampede at New Delhi railway station
2 dead, 8 hurt in stampede at New Delhi railway station
PremiumTragedy on tracks: Ashish, right, who was caught in the stampede, sits with family members at platform 13 of the New Delhi railway station. The stampede was caused by a change of platforms for two tra
New Delhi: Two persons were killed and eight injured on Sunday in a stampede triggered by a last-minute change of platforms for two trains at the New Delhi railway station.
A 35-year-old woman, identified as Soni, from Bhagalpur, and a boy, about 10-12 years of age, who is yet to be identified, died in the incident. Eight others, including three women, were injured, an official said.
Railway minister Mamata Banerjee ordered an inquiry into the incident, asking officials to take strict action against those responsible and announced a compensation of Rs2 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased.
Ashwini Luhani, divisional railway manager, said, “The train (Sapt Kranti), which was to come at platform 13, came at 12, and the train (Vikramsila), which was to come at platform 12, came at 13."
“The two trains were to leave at around 2.45 pm. The platforms for the trains were interchanged at the last minute and this led to the confusion," a senior police official said.
Passengers pushed and jostled to move to the other platform with their baggage, the official said.
“There were a lot of people. Someone fell on the foot-over-bridge and then people started pushing each other, resulting in the stampede," another official said.
Anil Banerjee, medical superintendent of Lok Nayak Jaiprakash Narayan Hospital, said 10 persons were brought to the hospital, of which two were declared brought dead.
feedback@livemint.com
Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!
