Khumbh Mela: stampede at train station kills at least 10 people

At least 10 people died and dozens more were injured Sunday when Hindu pilgrims who’d traveled to the northern Indian town of Allahabad to participate in a religious festival rushed to board a train at the railway station, the Associated Press reported.

The stampede caused the railing of an overbridge at the station to collapse, adding to the chaos, the Hindustan Times reported.

New Delhi television reported that at least 10 people were feared dead, while the Hindustan Times said that 18 women and six men had been killed.

The pilgrims were among the 30 million visitors who were expected to take a dip at the Sangam, where the Ganges, the Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati rivers come together, on Sunday, the AP reported. The day was one of the holiest bathing days of the 55-day-long Kumbh Mela, or Pitcher Festival, held every 12 years in Allahabad.

More from GlobalPost: Ganges-bathing attracts millions on auspicious day of Mauni Amavasya in India (VIDEO)

"I send my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved families and wish those injured a speedy recovery," Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Sunday, according to the Hindustan Times.
 

Will you support The World with a monthly donation?

There is no paywall on the story you just read because a community of dedicated listeners and readers have contributed to keep the global news you rely on free and accessible for all. Will you join the 226 donors who have supported The World so far? From now until Dec. 31, your gift will help us unlock a $67,000 match. Donate today to double your impact!