Until the work is completed, they are unable to use this staircase
Commuters crossing the tracks at the Diva end of platform numbers 1A and 2 to reach platform number 1, from where they exit towards the east side. PIC/SHRIKANT KHUPERKAR
While the Railways rightly and regularly warns commuters against crossing tracks, it is time the latter look within. This dangerous behaviour has become the default option for countless commuters at Kopar railway station. A new foot overbridge (FOB) has been recently constructed at the Diva end of the station, and platform extension work is underway to accommodate 15-coach trains.
The newly built staircase of the FOB currently restricts the full length required for 15-coach trains. Because of this, passengers who alight at the Diva end — especially those heading towards the east and west sides are facing serious inconvenience.
Until the work is completed, they are unable to use this staircase. As a result, many commuters have to either cross the Railway tracks or walk to the Dombivli end to access the other foot overbridge.
Commuters, even if hard pressed for time, will do well to walk to the Dombivli end and access the other FOB. This, because one should never take a chance crossing tracks, however easy that option may seem. There is a possibility of falling on the tracks in the hurry to get to the other side. That fall and getting up may take a minute or two. That itself can create a panic, stressful situation. One knows that a panicked mindset is a compromised one. There is an outside chance that one may fall and injure oneself quite badly, so getting up and running across may not be possible.
Authorities needed to think about this at the start of the work. Stick to the 15-day timeline. Have signage at the spot telling people to use the other bridge and not cross tracks, apologising for the inconvenience. Put people’s safety front and centre of any project.
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