The Western Railways has clarified that there was no structural damage to the foot over bridge (FOB) connecting the Elphinstone Road and Parel suburban stations in Mumbai that could be attributed to the stampede which led to the death of 22 people and injury to 38 others this morning.
In a press note, the Western Railways held “unprecedented rains” and “rumours” responsible for the tragic incident.
The statement claimed that commuters were caught unawares by the unprecedented rains.
“As people weren't prepared for rains, sudden rain made people from approach road to take shelter at FOB and at staircase. This led to overcrowding at the exit,” the statement said.
It further added that rumours like falling of FOB created panic among people which led to tremendous push from behind towards the exit that caused the stampede.
The statement claimed that there was no structural damage to the foot over bridge which can be attributed to the stampede.
“FOB is 5 meters wide and 32 meters long having dual exits, ie, North and South at the place of incident. New 12 meter long FOB at north end parallel to this bridge already sanctioned connecting WR and CR along with East-west connectivity,” it added.
The statement further said that the platforms at Elphinstone Road Station are also planned to be extended with construction of the new FOB.
It also added that tender has already been floated for the construction of the FOB.
