Daily Commuters Talk of Struggle and Stride Onboard Mumbai Local

Commuters who take the Mumbai local everyday complained about the daily stampede during the rush hour

(Photo: The Quint)

Twenty-three people were reportedly killed in a stampede at Mumbai's Elphinstone Railway Station, that broke out at around 10:22 am on Friday, 29 September.

At least 39 people were left injured in the mishap on a crowded footover bridge at the train station on the Western Line, which was reportedly triggered by heavy rains.

The Quint got in touch with commuters who take the Mumbai local everyday to find out more about their experience of daily commute.

(Also Read: Elphinstone Stampede: Accident or Criminal Civic Negligence?)

I take the train from Santa Cruz to Lower Parel. It’s very crowded and there is hardly any place to stand. There is a lot rush even when getting out. We never get a place to sit. The trains are usually late and hence there is more rush.

Sonali Rane, Commuter

The commuters also demanded wider bridges and platforms which could provide more space for the commuters.

The platforms should be made bigger and there should be an increase in the frequency of trains. There should be more bridges and if these steps were followed the accident could’ve probably been avoided. There is a lot of crowd at the Parel station. It takes them an hour just to get out.

Sonali Rane, Commuter

(Also Read: ‘Elphinstone Tragedy Was Waiting to Happen’: Angry Eyewitnesses)

Video Producer: Kavyasri Srinath
Video Editor: Sandeep Suman