Indian Railways to Revamp Non-AC Trains Following Tragic Incident

Revamping Non-AC Trains for Safety and Comfort

In response to a tragic incident where four passengers lost their lives after falling from overcrowded local trains in Mumbai, Indian Railways has announced plans to redesign its non-AC train services. The revamped trains will feature automatically closing doors and enhanced ventilation systems.

An official announcement highlighted that the primary concern with automatic doors in non-AC trains has been the risk of suffocation due to inadequate airflow. The new designs are expected to be completed by November 2025, with the aim of launching them by January 2026, following necessary testing and certification.

The Railway Board detailed that the new coaches will include louvred doors and roof-mounted ventilation units to ensure a steady supply of fresh air. Additionally, these coaches will be equipped with vestibules, allowing passengers to move between coaches, which will help distribute crowds more evenly.

This decision comes after a tragic event in Thane, Maharashtra, where four commuters died and nine others were injured when they fell from two overcrowded local trains. The incident occurred near Mumbra railway station as the trains passed each other on a sharp curve.

Reports indicate that the victims were riding on the footboards of the trains, one heading towards Kasara and the other towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai. As the trains approached each other, the passengers, who were hanging from the doors, collided due to their backpacks brushing against one another.