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The recent Mumbra train tragedy, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries, has once again brought the perilous state of Mumbai's suburban railway system into sharp focus. In response to this incident, the railways have proposed the implementation of automatic sliding doors equipped with ventilation louvres across all Mumbai suburban trains by the following year. This measure is primarily intended to mitigate the risks associated with footboard travel, a significant contributing factor to the accident. The rationale behind this proposal is that sliding doors will physically prevent passengers from travelling on the footboards, effectively forcing them to remain inside the compartments. Furthermore, these doors could potentially prevent passengers from alighting at unscheduled stops, thereby reducing the risk of being struck by oncoming trains. The suggestion of incorporating vestibules to connect the coaches is also being considered, with the aim of promoting a more even distribution of passengers throughout the train. This approach draws parallels with the practices employed in Japan, where dedicated personnel are often stationed at stations to assist in boarding, sometimes even physically pushing passengers onto the train to ensure that the doors can close and the train can depart on schedule. However, it is crucial to recognize that while footboard travel undoubtedly presents a serious safety hazard, it is merely a symptom of the underlying problem: the extreme overcrowding that plagues Mumbai's trains. For a vast majority of the population, the trains represent the most affordable mode of transportation, making them an indispensable lifeline for daily commutes. The dangers of overcrowding are not new, as evidenced by the tragic stampede that occurred at the Elphinstone Road station bridge in 2017, which resulted in numerous fatalities. Sadly, multiple deaths are a recurring occurrence along the three primary railway lines that serve as the arteries of Mumbai – the Central, Harbour, and Western lines. Many individuals are tragically struck by trains while attempting to cross the tracks, often choosing this dangerous shortcut over using designated roads or bridges. Therefore, while addressing rail safety is an immediate and critical priority, it is equally imperative that city leaders proactively develop inexpensive and viable alternative travel options to alleviate the strain on the existing railway infrastructure.
The challenges faced by Mumbai's railway system are inextricably linked to the city's rapid and often unplanned urbanization. While the trains have become an iconic symbol of Mumbai, romanticized in literature and popular culture, the reality is that they often provide a dehumanizing and unsafe mode of transport. Despite the city's significant advancements in road infrastructure and the proliferation of vehicular traffic, the suburban train system has undergone minimal improvements or upgrades over the past several decades. The emergence of two-wheelers as a common mode of transport, a phenomenon that was relatively uncommon just a few decades ago, further highlights the evolving transportation landscape of the city. While the ongoing development of the Metro system holds promise for decongesting the city to some extent, the higher fares associated with these services may render them inaccessible to the lower socio-economic classes, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities in access to transportation. A more equitable and cost-effective solution would involve enhancing bus services, particularly for routes connecting shorter distances. In conjunction with efforts to restructure the city's predominantly north-south network, which dictates commuter movements based on fixed schedules, urban planners should seriously consider expanding ferry transport. This option presents a cheaper and potentially more environmentally friendly alternative for a city that is inherently bound by the sea. The potential of waterways for transportation remains largely untapped and could offer a significant contribution to easing congestion on the existing land-based infrastructure. Furthermore, investment in pedestrian infrastructure, such as wider sidewalks and dedicated pedestrian crossings, would also improve safety and encourage walking as a viable mode of transport for shorter distances.
The recurring incidents of stampedes, such as the one in Bengaluru, fire accidents in densely populated areas, and train tragedies like the recent one in Mumbai, collectively underscore India's overall lack of preparedness to effectively manage the consequences of rapid urbanization. This unpreparedness is further compounded by the ongoing thrust to transform the traditional agrarian economy, potentially disrupting the livelihoods and engagement of a vast majority of the population who are currently dependent on agriculture. The focus on industrialization and urbanization, while aimed at economic growth, often neglects the social and environmental costs associated with these transitions. A more holistic and sustainable approach to development is needed, one that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status or geographic location. This includes investing in robust public infrastructure, providing affordable housing, ensuring access to basic services such as healthcare and education, and promoting sustainable environmental practices. Furthermore, it is crucial to address the root causes of migration from rural areas to urban centers, such as lack of economic opportunities and inadequate access to resources. By creating a more equitable and sustainable rural economy, it may be possible to reduce the pressure on urban centers and create a more balanced and harmonious society. Ultimately, addressing the challenges faced by cities like Mumbai requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses infrastructure development, transportation planning, social equity, and environmental sustainability. Only through such a comprehensive strategy can we hope to create cities that are truly liveable, safe, and prosperous for all.
In essence, the Mumbai train situation highlights a broader national challenge: the need for proactive and comprehensive urban planning that anticipates and mitigates the negative consequences of rapid urbanization. The knee-jerk reaction of simply adding more infrastructure, such as the proposed sliding doors, while seemingly addressing immediate safety concerns, fails to tackle the underlying issues of overcrowding, inadequate transportation options, and socioeconomic disparities. The city, and indeed the nation, needs a long-term vision that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens and fosters sustainable development. This vision must include investments in affordable housing, accessible healthcare, quality education, and efficient public transportation. Furthermore, it must address the root causes of rural-urban migration by creating economic opportunities and improving the quality of life in rural areas. Only then can we hope to create cities that are truly inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. The Mumbai trains, therefore, serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a paradigm shift in our approach to urban development, one that prioritizes the needs of the people and the planet over short-term economic gains. The safety and well-being of millions of commuters depend on it.
Source: Maximum Mumbai: On the city, its transportation needs