Mumbai’s first non-air-conditioned suburban train fitted with automatic doors, introduced as a major commuter safety initiative, remains out of service nearly two months after arriving in the city. The rake, which reached Mumbai on April 13, is currently stationed at the Kurla car shed, with railway authorities yet to announce a launch date for passenger operations.
The train was introduced in the aftermath of last year’s Mumbra accident, where five commuters lost their lives and nine others were reportedly injured after falling from an overcrowded local train. The incident reignited concerns over passenger safety and accelerated plans to introduce automatic-door local trains aimed at reducing accidents caused by overcrowding and footboard travel.
Built by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, the rake was projected as a significant step towards modernising Mumbai’s suburban rail network. However, despite initial expectations, it has not entered commercial service.
“For the past two months, the train has remained parked at the Kurla car shed. It has merely been moved from its original track and is currently stationed on Track No. 22. There is still uncertainty regarding its passenger service rollout,” a source told Mumbai Mirror.
Railway officials indicate that the delay is linked to concerns surrounding ventilation and commuter comfort inside the non-AC coaches. Authorities are reportedly conducting additional evaluations to ensure the train remains comfortable during peak-hour travel, particularly in Mumbai’s hot and humid weather conditions.
Central Railway officials maintain that the project is progressing and has not been abandoned. Speaking to Mirror, Central Railway Chief Public Relations Officer Swapnil Nila said, “Another automatic-door local train is currently undergoing trials on a 60-kilometre stretch between Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh and Mahoba in Uttar Pradesh. These trials are also being conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). Once the trials are completed in about five weeks, both trains will undergo testing in Mumbai. Thereafter, a decision regarding passenger service will be taken based on RDSO’s recommendations.”
Meanwhile, concerns over commuter safety continue to mount. According to Government Railway Police (GRP) data cited by Mumbai Mirror, the Central Railway network records an average of 1,338 accidental deaths annually, with overcrowding and footboard travel contributing significantly to the toll.
“After the Mumbra tragedy, authorities promised door-closed local trains to improve commuter safety. Nearly 10 months later, despite a rake arriving in Mumbai on 13 April 2026, it remains idle at Kurla Car Shed. We demand immediate trials and implementation. Safety delayed is safety denied, and commuters cannot wait any longer,” said Siddhesh Desai, Vice President, Mumbai Rail Pravasi Sangh.
Source: Mumbai Mirror
