The Central Railway (CR)'s recent move to allow hawkers again in Mumbai local trains have faced criticism. It has raised concerns among commuters, about safety amid existing overcrowding menace.
In response to this, the railway authorities informed that about 100 licensed vendors have been given permission to operate on the Main and Harbour lines.
A three-year contract has been given to a private agency to sell on trains running between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kalyan as well as on the Harbour line. A total of 50 vendors will be deployed on each route and they will be able to sell other items along with food.
The scheme includes the process of Aadhaar verification, police clearance, medical examination and issuance of official identity cards. Therefore, the scheme seems to be in an advanced stage of implementation.
However, a similar proposal in 2023 had to be withdrawn after strong opposition. At that time, the issue of crowding and passenger safety came to the fore. Now, the decision has again angered commuters and activists.
Mumbai's suburban railway, which is considered the city's 'lifeline', is already facing huge congestion. During peak hours, trains are overcrowded and many passengers are seen hanging from the doors. Allowing hawkers in coaches is seen as a potential safety hazard.
According to railway statistics, more than 2,000 people die in rail-related accidents every year, while about 2,500 are injured. Therefore, there are fears that the risk of hawkers may increase with the increasing crowd.
Meanwhile, Central Railway officials supported the decision and said that the scheme is being implemented to check unauthorized hawking and provide controlled and orderly services to passengers. Chief Public Relations Officer Dr. Swapnil Neela said that this initiative will increase facilities and maintain discipline in coaches.
As this plan moves forward, passenger safety will remain a central issue, and this is likely to intensify the debate in the future.
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