NEW DELHI: The ministry of railways in response to heavy crowding during peak travel seasons is planning to develop permanent holding areas at 60 railway stations to manage passenger flow across the network, according to ANI sources.
The move comes after at least 18 people were killed and several others injured in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station late Saturday night. The incident occurred when a massive crowd gathered following the announcement of a special train for the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Within minutes, chaos erupted as passengers surged forward, leading to multiple casualties and injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported that the crowd surge was triggered by the delay of two trains, causing an unexpected influx of passengers. As people rushed to board the special train, the situation spiralled out of control, with some passengers fainting amid the crush. This reportedly sparked rumours of a stampede, further intensifying the panic.
With rising concerns over crowd management at major railway hubs, the Centre is now working on creating designated holding zones to prevent such incidents in the future, ANI sources said.