Rail commuter associations also call for urgent measures, including increase in local train frequency among other things
Nandkumar Deshmukh, president of the Mumbai Suburban Railway Passengers’ Federation (left), outside the divisional railway manager’s office at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus on Friday. Pic/Rajendra B Aklekar
Passenger associations on Friday said they would call on Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to seek a probe by a retired justice into the Mumbra tragedy that happened on June 9, which led to the death of five commuters and caused injuries to nine others.
The inquiry conducted by the Government Railway Police (GRP) stated that the accident happened due to the negligence of officials responsible for safety and operations, and an FIR was filed against two engineers.
Also read: Mumbai train tragedy: Can we prevent another Mumbra?
“The Mumbai Suburban Railway Passengers’ Federation is expressing deep dissatisfaction with the railway administration’s negligence and demands strict action against the officials responsible. They emphasised that accidents like this could have been prevented had the administration acted promptly,” Nandkumar Deshmukh, president of the organisation, said.
The association has urged a probe by a retired justice to ensure strict legal action against those guilty.
Their memorandum to the authorities calls for urgent measures, including an increase in local train frequency. The association emphasised that millions of Mumbai commuters continue to face overcrowding, delays, and unsafe travel conditions daily, and warned that without immediate reform, such tragedies may recur.
Seven points highlighted by commuters
Increase local train frequency
Despite population growth, train frequency hasn’t increased in over a decade, causing overcrowding and accidents. Additional local services must be introduced urgently.
Completion of MUTP projects
Speed up pending railway development projects under MUTP for better suburban connectivity.
Thane station upgrades
Complete the long-delayed Thane station expansion and crowd-management projects.
Kurla-Kasara line expansion
Finish the 3rd and 4th railway line work on this route soon.
New trains on the Badlapur-Asangaon Route
Introduce 15 new trains on this route to reduce congestion.
Upgradation of suburban sections
Give suburban railway status to the Diva-Vasai route and increase services.
Separate control room for suburban railways
Establish an independent control system for suburban operations to ensure efficiency and passenger safety.
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