Stamapede at Mumbai's Bandra station injures 9 people

A stampede at Bandra Terminus in Mumbai this morning resulted in at least nine injuries, including two individuals in critical condition. The incident occurred at approximately 5:56 AM on platform number 1, shortly before the scheduled departure of the Bandra-Gorakhpur Antyodaya Express. All injured persons were transported to Bhabha Hospital, where medical personnel are currently providing treatment and evaluating their conditions.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported that the stampede was triggered by a substantial increase in passenger traffic due to the upcoming Diwali festivities. Thousands of travelers gathered at the station, eager to return to their hometowns for the holiday, leading to overcrowding. The high volume of passengers caused a rush at the platform, with many trying to board the train before it had fully arrived.

Western Railway's Chief Public Relations Officer, Vineet Abhishek, explained that the situation escalated when two passengers attempted to board the Antyodaya Express before it had come to a complete stop. The train had been brought to platform number 1 from the yard around 2:45 AM, and as it approached, the passengers disregarded safety protocols, attempting to enter while the doors remained locked. This premature action resulted in individuals falling between the coaches, contributing to the injuries reported.

Eyewitness accounts highlighted the chaotic scene during the stampede. Visuals from the platform showed blood on the ground, with Railway Police and local citizens assisting the injured. One video depicted a Railway officer carrying an injured passenger, while another captured two men lying on the platform, visibly wounded. Passengers expressed concern about the lack of crowd control measures, particularly during peak travel times associated with major festivals.

In response to the incident, railway authorities are reviewing safety and crowd management protocols to enhance passenger security, especially as travel demand increases during the festive season. With Diwali and Chhath festivals drawing near, railway officials anticipate continued high passenger volumes and are emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to manage crowds effectively. Despite the stampede, the Antyodaya Express departed Bandra Terminus on time.