Six months after the Central Railway (CR)’s implementation, Western Railway (WR) has announced to inducted a dedicated and renovated compartment for senior citizens in Mumbai local trains. It will be initially planned in 105 non-AC local trains, as per railway officials.
The compartment, which was earlier reserved for luggage, will now be the special coach for the elderly.
With this initiative, senior citizens will be able to travel more safely, easily, and comfortably.
The special compartment will be at the sixth position in trains heading towards Churchgate station.
The design of this special compartment has been made keeping passenger safety and convenience in mind. It will have three 3-seater benches and two 2-seater units, with a total seating capacity of 13 passengers. Additionally, more than 50 passengers can stand in this compartment.
For safety, special arrangements have been made in this compartment. Emergency ladders have been provided under the frames of both doors inside the compartment, which can be used by passengers in any emergency situation.
Currently, WR’s electric multiple unit (EMU) suburban trains have 14 seats for senior citizens, seven per side in the third and 12th coaches from the Churchgate side, which are not enough for the number of travellers.
Also Read: More CCTV Cameras, Dedicated Coach for Elderly in Mumbai Locals: WR's Move to Improve Safety For Women, Senior Citizens