Indian Railways Announces Redesign of Non-AC Trains After Mumbai Commuter Deaths

Following a fatal accident involving crowded Mumbai local trains, Indian Railways has initiated a redesign of its non-AC train fleet. The new design will prioritize safety with the inclusion of auto-closing doors and address the ventilation concerns associated with such systems. The move comes after four passengers died and nine were injured in an incident near Mumbra railway station in Thane, Maharashtra. The new trains, scheduled to be operational by January 2026 after tests and certifications, will incorporate features such as doors with louvres and roof-mounted ventilation units to improve airflow. The Railway Board stated that the redesigned coaches will include vestibules to help manage passenger distribution. Furthermore, the Railway Board is also manufacturing 238 new AC trains for Mumbai’s suburban services.