At least 22 people have died and over 30 have been injured in a stampede that took place at Mumbai’s Elphinstone Road Station.
The incident, which occurred at 10.45am, saw a number of commuters crowding the foot overbridge owing to the rains. The foot overbridge connects Elphinstone Road Station and Parel Station. Elphinstone is on the Western Line, while Parel is on the Central Line. A number of offices are situated near Elphinstone Station in Mumbai.
According to PTI, police suspect that a short-circuit with a loud sound occurred near the foot overbridge, leading to panic.
Visuals from the spot show bodies piled on top of each other, even as people cling on to the railing of the overbridge.
Railway Spokesperson Anil Saxena told media persons that many people had collected at the foot overbridge as it was raining, and started stepping out when it stopped. A passenger is said to have slipped, resulting in the stampede. He also said that the relief team had reached the spot, and that the Railways’ General Manager was at KEM Hospital.
Addressing a press conference, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh each from the state government and the Railways to the kin of the deceased. To those grievously injured, an ex-gratia of Rs 1 lakh would be given, and to those with minor injuries, Rs 50,000 would be given. He also ordered an enquiry.
Have ordered a high level enquiry headed by the Chief Safety Officer, Western Railways.
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) September 29, 2017
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind expressed their condolences.
My deepest condolences to all those who have lost their lives due to the stampede in Mumbai. Prayers with those who are injured.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 29, 2017
Anguished by the loss of lives in the stampede in Mumbai. Condolences to the bereaved families; prayers with injured — #PresidentKovind
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) September 29, 2017