Mumbai Train Tragedy Spurs Overhaul: Automatic Doors, Better Ventilation In Non-AC Locals

Last Updated:June 09, 2025, 19:54 IST

The first train built with this upgraded design is expected to be ready by November 2025

Four commuters died and nine were injured after falling off two overcrowded local trains in Maharashtra's Thane district during the morning rush hour on Monday. (Photo: PTI file)

In the aftermath of a tragic incident on the Mumbai suburban rail network, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and senior Railway Board officials on Monday convened an urgent meeting with the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) team to chart out practical solutions to a long-standing issue, automatic door-closing in non-AC local trains.

Four commuters died and nine were injured after falling off two overcrowded local trains in Maharashtra’s Thane district during the morning rush hour on Monday.

During the meeting, the core challenge identified was the lack of adequate ventilation in non-AC coaches when doors are kept closed, leading to suffocation during peak hours. Unlike air-conditioned trains, these coaches rely heavily on open doors for airflow, making automatic door systems difficult to implement.

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To address this, Indian Railways has decided to redesign its non-AC coaches with a focus on passenger comfort and safety. Three key changes will be incorporated into the new design:

Doors with Louvres: These will allow airflow even when doors are closed, reducing the risk of suffocation.

Roof-Mounted Ventilation Units: Fresh air will be pumped into coaches using mechanical ventilation systems to maintain circulation during crowded journeys.

Vestibules Between Coaches: The introduction of interconnecting passages will allow passengers to move freely between coaches, helping to ease congestion naturally.

The first train built with this upgraded design is expected to be ready by November 2025, and after undergoing mandatory tests and certification, it will be introduced into Mumbai’s suburban network by January 2026.

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This initiative is in addition to the 238 AC local trains currently being manufactured for Mumbai, underlining Indian Railways’ commitment to transforming the city’s lifeline into a safer and more commuter-friendly system.

Officials said the move marks a significant step forward in modernising the non-AC fleet without compromising on ventilation, a concern that has stalled such safety upgrades for years.

Akash Sharma

Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin...Read More

Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin...

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