A controversial move by Central Railway has sparked fresh concern among commuters in Mumbai, where suburban local trains are already struggling with extreme overcrowding. Reports indicate that authorities have once again decided to permit hawkers inside trains, granting official contracts despite earlier backlash. Around 100 licensed vendors have reportedly been approved across both the main and Harbour lines. A similar proposal in 2023 had triggered strong opposition from commuter groups, forcing officials to withdraw it. However, it has now emerged that the tender process was quietly completed without consulting passenger associations. Official documents accessed by media sources confirm that the plan has been revived and is moving forward.
According to the available details, a private agency has been awarded a three-year contract to operate vending services on suburban trains running between CSMT and Kalyan, along with those on the Harbour route. Under this arrangement, a total of 100 authorised vendors will be deployed, with an equal split of 50 on each corridor. These vendors will be permitted to sell both consumable and non-consumable items within train compartments. Documentation outlines requirements such as Aadhaar verification, police clearance, medical certification, and issuance of official identity cards. The presence of such detailed procedures suggests that the scheme is already in an advanced stage of implementation.
Central Railway had floated a similar proposal in 2023, but it faced intense resistance from commuter organisations and activists who raised concerns about safety and congestion. At the time, the issue gained traction as overcrowding in local trains was highlighted as a serious hazard. Media outlets also underscored the risks posed to passengers, prompting railway authorities to halt the plan. Despite that earlier setback, the current revival of the scheme has raised suspicions that it is being pushed through discreetly, without public engagement or transparency, leading to renewed criticism from daily commuters.
Overcrowding in Mumbai’s local trains is already considered a major safety challenge, with thousands of passengers forced to travel under risky conditions every day. Many commuters hang from train doors during peak hours due to lack of space, exposing themselves to life-threatening dangers. Official statistics reveal that more than 2,000 people lose their lives annually in railway-related accidents, while nearly 2,500 others suffer injuries. In such a scenario, the introduction of vendors inside coaches is being viewed as an additional risk that could worsen an already critical situation and further compromise passenger safety.
Commuter groups have reacted strongly to the decision, calling it irresponsible and dangerous. Lata Aragde, president of a suburban passengers’ association, questioned whether revenue generation was being prioritised over human lives. She pointed out that when passengers themselves struggle to find standing space, allowing hawkers inside trains could prove hazardous. Aragde also criticised the authorities for reintroducing the plan despite earlier opposition and warned that protests could be launched if the decision is not reconsidered. Her remarks reflect the growing anger among daily commuters who feel excluded from the decision-making process.
The move has also raised serious questions about transparency, as railway officials have not clarified the criteria or reasoning behind reviving the previously scrapped proposal. Critics argue that the lack of communication suggests a possible shift in priorities, with financial considerations taking precedence over commuter welfare. However, Central Railway has defended the initiative, stating that the introduction of authorised vendors aims to curb illegal hawking and provide passengers with regulated, affordable services. Chief Public Relations Officer Dr. Swapnil Nila maintained that the scheme would improve convenience while ensuring safer and more organised vending practices within trains.
Key Highlights:
Contracts issued for hawkers on main and Harbour lines
Total 100 vendors: 50 on each route
Similar plan withdrawn in 2023 after protests
Allegations of lack of consultation with commuter groups
Over 2,000 deaths reported annually in railway accidents
Proposal revived in 2025 and contract awarded in 2026