How Western Railway plans to make more room for senior citizens on Mumbai local trains
The Western Railway has decided to convert luggage compartments in local trains into special coaches exclusively for elderly commuters, aiming to ease the daily commute for senior citizens. The initiative comes in response to a Bombay High Court directive and aims to improve safety and convenience for senior citizens travelling in the crowded suburban rail network in Mumbai.
Currently, WR's electric multiple unit (EMU) suburban trains have 14 seats of accommodation for senior citizens, seven per side in the third and twelfth coaches from the Churchgate side. Yet, in peak hours, numerous elderly passengers are finding it difficult to access these seats as corridors are packed and seats are already occupied.
To address this issue, the Railway Board approved a proposal to convert the seventh coach from the Churchgate side, currently a luggage van, into an exclusive senior citizen coach. Each refurbished compartment will have a 13 seats and standing room for 91 commuters. The train will have separate entry and exit points to facilitate boarding and deboarding at peak hours.
This will be done on a phased basis in 105 non-air-conditioned EMU rakes on the Western line. The project cost is estimated to be Rs 5.4 crore. 'Tenders have already been invited and the work is likely to be finished within one year of its initiation,' said Vineet Abhishek, WR CPRO.
Today, over 50,000 older people travel on local trains in Mumbai every day. A public interest litigation in the Bombay High Court had brought to light the plight of the elderly and asked for special compartments for them. The railway administration initiated preparations to convert some coaches based on the court's orders.
This is the inaugural installation of a special coach, other than reserved seating for senior citizens within the suburban system. Abhishek added the transformation would provide not only comfort but better safety, especially during rush hour when surging crowds on trains make it dangerous for elderly commuters.
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