This Article is From Feb 11, 2013

Allahabad stampede: Uttar Pradesh government orders inquiry

Allahabad stampede: Uttar Pradesh government orders inquiry
Allahabad: The Uttar Pradesh government today ordered an inquiry into the stampede at the Allahabad railway station and asked the Railways to make proper arrangement to clear the rush of pilgrims who have gathered for Maha-Kumbh from all over the country.

Over 30 people were killed and many were injured in a stampede at Allahabad railway station teeming with thousands of pilgrims returning after a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh here.

"The state government has ordered an inquiry into the incident. The 'snan' at Kumbh was completed without any problem...the unfortunate incident took place at the railway station. Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has ordered an inquiry," SP spokesman and Cabinet minister Rajendra Chowdhury told PTI.

Defending local administration, Mr Chowdhury said there was no laxity on its part and it was the failure of the railways, which should have run more trains to deal with the rush.

He said that Chief Minister has asked the Centre to run more trains to clear the rush in Allahabad.

The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of those killed in the incident and Rs one lakh to the injured, Director, Information, Prabhat Mittal said.

He said Chairman Revenue Board has been asked by Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav to inquire into the incident and submit the report to him.

The Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party supremo, Mulayam Singh, Yadav have offered condolences to the victims' families and said that all the possible help would be given to those injured.

The Chief Minister said that senior officers have been asked to keep an eye on the situation and provide all possible help to the people.
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