The Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Sunday called the Bandra railway station a stark example of “India’s crumbling infrastructure.” The former Congress chief went on to say that “it raises serious concerns.”

In a post on social media platform ‘X’, he wrote: “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.”

Rahul Gandhi pointed out that “inaugurations and publicity” only matter when supported by a foundation that truly aims to serve the public.

Recalling the “Balasore train tragedy”, Rahul criticized the BJP-led government for handling the incident badly. “The Balasore train accident in June last year claimed 300 lives, but instead of compensating the victims, the BJP government has dragged them into long legal battles,” he added.

“Just think – when even the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj collapsed within just nine months, it clearly indicates that the intention was only publicity, with no respect for Shivaji Maharaj or concern for public safety,” Rahul said.

उद ए प प तुहोस् आच है अंगें जीर आसी बुनिय हो जो जानत की सेव के लिये में क क जब स err

hal… pic.twitter.com/CTrotNFOvI— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) 27 October 2024

Gandhi stated that India is capable and competent and just needs an “efficient and transparent system” focused on public service and the development of a strong future for the nation.

The congressional leader noted, “Today, the nation needs a world-class infrastructure that also addresses the local needs of the poor—facilitating business, facilitating travel, and ensuring security.”

Bandra Railway Station Stampede

A flash flood at Mumbai’s Bandra railway station on Sunday left nine people injured as passengers rushed to board a Gorakhpur-bound train, according to civic and disaster control officials. However, Western Railway reported that only two people were injured in the incident.

As the Diwali and Chhath festivals approached, many travelers flocked to Bandra Terminus to catch trains to their hometowns. Chaos erupted as passengers rushed to board the Bandra-Gorakhpur Antyodaya Express, which arrived at platform number one.