New Delhi stampede: 18 dead. Why was government response delayed?

New Delhi Railway Station witnessed a horrific stampede on the night of February 15, claiming 18 lives and leaving many injured. Witnesses noted the over-crowding at the station and related the lack of adequate security.

There were many complaints about not having barricading, and it was observed that police presence was almost non-existent. The situation led to panic that made people rush, and this further caused the loss of lives. Locals are saying had proper security been in place, this disaster would never have occurred.

The post-incident administration faced severe condemnation. As ire erupted, the government ordered as yet another full investigation and increased security at the station. More policemen have now been deployed, barricades erected, and measures for controlling crowds put in place.

However, questions remain about why it took so long for a government response. Why, before the accident, had there been insufficient attention to that security? Analysts argue that sheer administrative negligence results in incidents like this tragedy. They emphasised that an effective system of vigilance to curb such accidents should be executed for future preparedness rather than only arranging security only after the disaster had struck.

The key question remains regarding, "Will these new measures bear long-term results?" Will the administration remain on the lookout for such incidents?