PM condoles loss of lives in Allahabad Railway Station stampede

New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Sunday night condoled the loss of lives in a stampede at Allahabad Railway Station and assured financial assistance to the families of those killed and to the injured. At least 10 persons were killed and scores of others injured in a stampede at Allahabad railway station teeming with thousands of pilgrims returning after a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh here. Vice President Hamid Ansari also deeply condoled the death of Kumbh pilgrims and wished speedy recovery for the injured. The Prime Minister directed Railway Ministry to provide all necessary assistance to the affected persons and said the Central government will extend all possible help to the state government in relief operations. "I am deeply shocked to learn of the unfortunate incident at the Allahabad Railway station today, in which precious lives have been lost and many pilgrims to Kumbh Mela among other people have been injured," he said in a statement. "I send my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved families and wish those injured a speedy recovery. I have issued instructions to Ministry of Railways to provide all necessary assistance to the affected persons," Singh said. Congress President Sonia Gandhi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the stampede. PTI