The local is the lifeline for the Mumbaikar as it is the fastest way to commute from one place to another. Many people risk their life and travel board crowded train. A video of commuters, standing on the footrest of train has surfaced on social media, sparking safety concern.
Video shared by one of the local traveler, Vinod Raj Chaudhary, shows two to three men hanging onto the exterior ledge of train. Compartment door can be seen closed making it even more risky. A video from a Central Railway station shows passengers risking their lives by clinging to a moving train's exterior. Passengers inside then pull them to safety. While overcrowding is common on Mumbai's suburban trains, this incident highlights the dangerous measures commuters take to travel.
The video has ignited debate about whether such actions exemplify the "Mumbai spirit" or represent reckless endangerment, with critics arguing that risking lives for commuting reflects systemic failures, not resilience. Following the Mumbra tragedy, automatic doors are planned for non-AC local trains to improve passenger safety and address overcrowding.
However, a recent video highlights concerns that commuters may override these safety measures due to overcrowding or urgency, potentially negating their benefits. While infrastructure upgrades are necessary, Mumbai's growing commuter population requires a multi-faceted approach, including increased capacity, stricter enforcement, and behavioral changes, to prioritize safety.