The Railways on Monday said they were in complete readiness to allow all women on trains anytime, and that the modalities for this had been worked out at a meeting on Sunday. They were only awaiting the final nod of the chief minister.

"A discussion in this regard was held on October 18 with the Maharashtra government to finalise the modalities. The Union Ministry of Home affairs has also looked into the issue and has now told the state government authorities to finalise the modalities. The decision will be based on social and medical protocols like social distancing etc. being followed. Considering the present scenario of the pandemic, the state government has to ensure overcrowding is avoided at platforms and in trains, and effectively counter the law and order situation, if any, that may arise," a Western Railway spokesperson said, regarding the security at stations, etc.