Hospital shares 5 victims of Delhi stampede died from traumatic asphyxia; understanding the condition

The tragedy unfolded when some passengers slipped and fell while descending from a footover bridge, leading to a chaotic pile-up. With an overwhelming number of travellers crowding platforms 14 and 15 to board trains heading to Prayagraj for the ongoing Maha Kumbh, the situation escalated rapidly.

Dr Nikhil Modi, Senior Consultant in Respiratory and Critical Care at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals explained the primary cause of death in five of the victims: traumatic asphyxia. This condition, often resulting from severe chest compression, restricts normal breathing and blood circulation. As a result, oxygen deprivation occurs, which can lead to unconsciousness, organ failure, and, ultimately, death.

The RML Hospital, where post-mortem examinations were conducted, confirmed that the five victims—four women and one man—had succumbed to this condition. A senior doctor at the hospital told PTI that no injured victims were brought to RML, but five bodies were transferred from LNJP Hospital for post-mortem analysis.

Standing near the emergency ward of Lok Nayak Hospital, where her brother-in-law, Shailendra Poddar (38), was admitted after he broke his leg in the chaos, Kiran said she had her family were going to the Maha Kumbh. (Express Photo by Gajendra Yadav)

Understanding traumatic asphyxia

Traumatic asphyxia, also referred to as crush asphyxia, occurs when extreme pressure is applied to the chest or upper abdomen.

According to Dr Modi, this intense force prevents the diaphragm from expanding, making normal respiration impossible. Additionally, the pressure forces blood back into the upper body, causing visible signs such as petechiae (purplish-red discoloration due to ruptured capillaries) in the face, neck, and eyes. Swelling of the head and upper body is another common sign.

If compression persists for an extended period, the victim can lose consciousness within minutes, organ failure, and death within minutes.

However, if relieved quickly, recovery is possible with medical intervention, including oxygen therapy and monitoring for internal injuries. Preventing traumatic asphyxia involves ensuring proper safety measures in high-risk environments, avoiding overcrowding, and implementing effective emergency response strategies.

As investigations continue, authorities are expected to assess how to mitigate overcrowding at major transport hubs to prevent similar tragedies in the future.