Dozens killed in Mumbai railway station stampede

Tragedy has occurred during morning rush-hour at a major railway station in Mumbai.

A stampede took place on a railway over bridge connecting Parel and Elphinstone Rd stations, leaving 22 dead.

According to officials, people crowding the bridge and seeking shelter from the monsoon rains were the cause.

"The incident occurred as heavy rains lashed Mumbai and passengers took refuge on the foot overbridge. People at the front slipped and the huge crowd toppled over, leading to the stampede," Indian Railways spokesman Ravindra Bhakar told AFP.

"Twenty-two dead have been confirmed, 14 men and eight women... Some 32 passengers are injured."

Footage of the incident shows commuters desperately trying to rescue passengers and attempting to revive people by pumping their chests. 

Akash Koteja survived, but was injured in the stampede. He told the BBC: "Trains were rolling in and some people wanted to get out of the station, but others were not making way. When a few tried, it led to a stampede." 

An investigation has been launched into the cause of the accident, with many reported to blame Mumbai's overcrowded transport infrastructure. 

Locals have voiced concern about the condition of Mumbai's infrastructure as the government moves forward to introduce bullet trains in the region.

Newshub.