As many as 22 people have reportedly lost their lives and over 30 people have been left injured in a dreadful stampede that took place at Elphinstone railway station’s foot-over bridge in Mumbai on Friday. The police officials and medical teams have rushed to the spot. The injured have been rushed to Mumbai’s KEM hospital for further treatment. A doctor at KEM hospital stated that at least 15 people were declared brought dead.
The incident took place during the rush hours at 9:30 am near the ticket counter between the Lower Parel and Elphinstone stations. “Of the injured 20 people have serious injuries, rest have minor injuries. Can’t comment more right now,” Niket Kaushik, GRP Commissioner was quoted as saying. Kaushik further stated that while 20 of the injured have sustained serious injury, 10 have suffered minor injuries.
Of the injured 20 people have serious injuries, rest have minor injuries. Can’t comment more right now: Niket Kaushik,GRP Commissioner pic.twitter.com/I3UP03WyQZ
— ANI (@ANI) September 29, 2017
While the exact reason of the accident has not identified as yet, the incident took place at a narrow staircase. “Due to sudden rain, the people were waiting at the station. Chaos ensued when the downpour stopped as people rushed to go out and a stampede occurred,” A Saxena, director-general (PR), Railways, told reporters. Elaborating on how the incident took place, a railway official said that 4 trains came at the same time leading to chaos.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena MLA has a taken a dig at the government for not providing “basic facilities”. Government is not able to provide basic facilities and services at stations but dreams of bullet trains,” Ajay Choudhary said. Initial reports suggest that the bridge is old and needs repair as it is not strong enough to handle the pressure.
Three dead, more than 20 injured in a stampede at Elphinstone railway station's foot over bridge in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/EipEENFNaI
— ANI (@ANI) September 29, 2017
