July 8, 2025: In a landmark move to improve accessibility and inclusivity, the first Mumbai suburban local train featuring a dedicated coach exclusively for senior citizens is now ready at the Central Railway’s Matunga Workshop. The coach, set to enter service later this week, marks a significant step towards easing the commuting challenges faced by elderly passengers, especially during peak hours.
The specially designated coach—modelled on those currently reserved for luggage and differently abled commuters—has been integrated into one of the Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) rakes. Positioned as the sixth coach from the Mumbai end, this compartment will offer a safer, more comfortable space for senior citizens navigating the city’s crowded suburban rail system.
This initiative follows a directive issued by the Bombay High Court in September 2024, prompted by a Public Interest Litigation filed by K P Purushothaman Nair, a retired government employee. The petition urged the railways to allocate separate coaches for the elderly, akin to those provided for physically challenged passengers. Until now, only seven seats were reserved for senior citizens per train, spread across two general compartments—an arrangement often rendered ineffective during rush hours.
Central Railway has ambitious plans to retrofit 163 existing trains with senior citizen coaches by September 2026, without disrupting current services. A spokesperson stated, “Matunga Workshop has rolled out the first EMU rake with a dedicated coach for elderly passengers—a key milestone in our efforts towards inclusive mobility.”
In parallel, Western Railway has announced similar plans to convert luggage compartments in 105 non-AC EMU rakes into senior citizen coaches. Each will accommodate up to 91 passengers, including 13 designated seats, significantly improving travel comfort for Mumbai’s elderly commuters.
This initiative marks a progressive shift towards age-inclusive public transport infrastructure in the city.
Source: Construction World
