Poor maintenance, neglect of public property lead to incidents like Mumbai Bandra station stampede: Rahul Gandhi

Lok Sabha leader of opposition and Member of Parliament Rahul Gandhi on Oct 27 said incidents like Mumbai’s Bandra railway station happen due to poor maintenance and neglect of public property.

At least ten people were injured as a large crowd rushed to board the festival special train, the 22921 Bandra-Gorakhpur Express.

In a post on X, Gandhi said, "Inaugurations and publicity hold value only when backed by a foundation that genuinely serves the public. When lives are lost, and bridges, platforms, or statues collapse after ribbon-cutting ceremonies due to poor maintenance and neglect of public property, it raises serious concerns."

"The Balasore train accident in June last year claimed 300 lives, yet instead of compensating the victims, the BJP government has embroiled them in lengthy legal battles. Just think – when even the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj collapsed within just nine months, it clearly indicates that the intent was merely publicity, with no respect for Shivaji Maharaj or concern for public safety," Gandhi added.

He said the nation needs world-class infrastructure that also addresses the local needs of the poor– facilitating business, easing travel, and ensuring safety.

Gandhi said India is capable, requiring only an "effective and transparent system" dedicated to public service and building a strong future for the country.

About the incident, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation official said, “The incident took place at 5:56 am on platform number one at Bandra Terminus, where there was a rush to board train number 22921 Bandra-Gorakhpur Express. The number of passengers exceeded the capacity of the 22-coach unreserved train, resulting in a chaotic situation.”