June 9: In a major push for passenger safety, Indian Railways has initiated a significant transformation in Mumbai’s local train system following the tragic Thane footboard accident. The incident, which sparked public outrage and drew national attention, involved a commuter falling while hanging on the footboard of a moving train — a recurring risk in the overcrowded Mumbai suburban network. Responding swiftly, the Ministry of Railways has announced the phased installation of automatic doors in Mumbai’s local trains, marking a revolutionary change in the 170-year-old railway system.
This new safety feature, similar to metro train standards, aims to prevent passengers from standing dangerously at the edge of the footboard — a common sight during peak hours. The automatic doors will open and close only at designated stations, thus reducing the risk of falls, injuries, and fatalities. According to railway officials, this move is a part of a broader modernization initiative focused on bringing urban commuter travel in India on par with global standards.
Currently, the Central and Western Railway networks cater to over 75 lakh daily passengers in Mumbai. However, the lack of safety infrastructure like automated doors has long been a critical concern. The decision to implement automatic door systems has been welcomed by commuters and safety advocates alike. Trial runs are expected to begin with newer rakes, while older trains will undergo phased retrofitting.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that passenger safety is a top priority and affirmed that technological solutions will be deployed swiftly to eliminate preventable tragedies. This step also aligns with the government’s broader vision of upgrading India’s urban mobility systems under the Smart Cities Mission and Vande Bharat expansion drive.
The introduction of automatic doors could be a game-changer, not just for Mumbai but for other high-density suburban networks across India, such as Kolkata and Chennai. With public pressure mounting and the memory of the Thane accident still fresh, Indian Railways appears determined to bring long-overdue change that puts commuter lives first.