Bombay HC Recommends Automatic Doors to Curb Train Overcrowding Fatalities

Mumbai, June 21: In the wake of the tragic Mumbra train incident that claimed at least five lives, the Bombay High Court has strongly urged railway authorities to consider installing automatic doors on Mumbai's suburban trains to prevent future fatalities from overcrowding.

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by daily commuter Yatin Jadhav prompted the court's stern observations. The PIL, filed through senior advocate Rohan Shah and advocate Surabhi Prabhudesai, drew attention to the June 9 incident where several passengers died and others were injured after falling from overcrowded trains between Mumbra and Diva stations on the Central Railway line.

During Friday's hearing, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne described the safety situation on Mumbai's local trains as "alarming." The court remarked that approximately ten commuters die daily on the city’s railway system, calling for immediate systemic improvements.

Court's Recommendation: Automated Doors

In a notable recommendation, the bench suggested the installation of automatic doors in suburban trains, similar to those used in metro systems. “The doors should not be left open. There should be automatic doors,” the court observed. “We are not experts, but we are relying on expert knowledge to arrive at this suggestion.”

The bench also directed state and railway authorities to submit affidavits within three weeks outlining the specific safety measures being taken to prevent such accidents. The court instructed that an expert committee be constituted to assess recurring fatalities and propose structural and procedural solutions.

Railway's Response and Ongoing Safety Initiatives

Appearing on behalf of the railway authorities, Additional Solicitor General Anil Singh updated the court on the ongoing "Zero Death Mission" aimed at reducing fatalities on the suburban rail network. He stated that a high-level monitoring committee has already been formed, and an additional multidisciplinary task force led by the Senior Divisional Safety Officer of Central Railway is currently investigating the June 9 incident.

Singh acknowledged the challenges of upgrading infrastructure without interrupting regular services. “Work such as fencing, wall construction, and relocating platform stalls is mainly conducted at night to avoid disruption to daily commuters,” he added.

Despite a reported 46% decrease in train-related deaths since 2009, Singh admitted that in 2023 alone, 3,588 fatalities were recorded on Mumbai's suburban network. “While our mission is zero death, we are open to all suggestions in public interest,” he told the bench.

Need for Urgent and Coordinated Action

The High Court has emphasized the importance of timely action. It ordered that officials incorporate the petitioner’s suggestions into their safety plans and deliver a clear, time-bound status report during the next hearing scheduled for July 14.

Commuters and railway safety activists have long voiced concerns over overcrowding, lack of onboard safety measures, and inadequate emergency response on Mumbai's vital but overburdened suburban railway network. The latest tragedy near Mumbra has once again exposed the systemic gaps and prompted public outrage.

Public and Legal Advocacy for Safer Commutes

Advocates involved in the PIL believe this court intervention could pave the way for meaningful, long-term reform. “This is not just about one incident. Every commuter has the right to travel safely. Automatic doors are a starting point for ensuring that right,” said Shah.

Experts note that while Mumbai’s local trains are among the most efficient modes of urban transit, their safety infrastructure remains outdated. Automatic doors, real-time monitoring, and improved station facilities are seen as critical upgrades.

Conclusion: Toward a Safer Future

As Mumbai continues to grow and urban mobility demands intensify, the state and railway authorities face the challenge of modernising infrastructure without compromising service. The Bombay High Court’s observations may mark a turning point in prioritising commuter safety and accountability.

The court's insistence on timelines, transparency, and expert input reinforces the need for a comprehensive strategy to reduce fatalities and ensure safer travel for millions who depend on Mumbai’s suburban railway every day.