West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Sunday emphasised the need for better planning and management for pilgrims, as she expressed her condolences over the loss of 18 lives in a tragic stampede at New Delhi railway station on Saturday night. The incident had occurred as thousands of passengers gathered to board trains heading to the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. Expressing her condolences, Miss Banerjee posted on her X handle: “The tragic loss of 18 lives in the Delhi stampede is deeply heartbreaking.
This painful incident highlights the importance of careful planning and management, especially when it comes to the safety of citizens. Pilgrims on their way to the Mahakumbh should have been met with proper support and facilities, not distress. It is essential to ensure that such journeys are safe and well-organised. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, and I pray for the swift recovery of the injured.”
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According to local sources, a large crowd had gathered at platforms 12 and 13, waiting for the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Express, both scheduled to pass through Prayagraj. However, when these trains did not arrive on time, rumors began circulating that they had been cancelled. At this moment, the special Kumbhbound Prayagraj Express pulled into platform 14. Hearing this, desperate passengers, including those waiting for the other two trains, rushed towards the platform to board it. In the ensuing chaos, many lost their footing, resulting in a deadly stampede.
