Bandra-Delhi Garib Rath passenger dies after alleged delay in medical halt
A female passenger died on July 12 after falling seriously ill onboard the Garib Rath Express departing from Bandra Terminus, sparking public outrage and allegations that initial requests for an emergency medical halt were denied. The medical emergency occurred onboard Train No. 12216, which runs from Bandra Terminus to Delhi Sarai Rohilla.
The deceased passenger's son and fellow travellers claimed that their urgent appeals to halt the train for medical assistance were initially ignored by railway staff. The incident has since ignited widespread criticism on social media platforms, with many demanding an independent inquiry into whether the standard railway emergency protocols were followed during the crisis.
Western Railway officials have expressed regret over the incident. In an official statement, Western Railway noted, "The medical emergency experienced by the passenger during the journey is sincerely regretted."
According to the official logs provided by Western Railway, a request for medical assistance from a doctor at Vadodara was received from the onboard staff at 16:22 hrs. This request was immediately conveyed to the concerned station authorities.
Shortly after, at 16:32 hrs, a request for a 108 ambulance was received. Railway officials stated that the matter was promptly coordinated with the concerned control authorities.
To facilitate emergency care, railway authorities arranged an unscheduled halt for the train at Itola station, located near Vadodara. A 108 ambulance had already been positioned at the station in advance of the train's arrival. Upon arriving at Itola, the passenger was immediately attended to by medical personnel and shifted to the ambulance for further treatment.
Western Railway has confirmed that a detailed examination of the incident is underway. "The concerns shared have been taken note of and forwarded to the concerned department for detailed examination. Appropriate action, as deemed fit based on the findings, will be taken in accordance with the extant rules," the railway authority stated, adding that it remains committed to the safety and well-being of its passengers.
