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This new system aims to manage the growing number of daily passengers using Mumbai’s local trains, a service that has been running for over 150 years.
The Railway Board has asked all zones across India to suggest stations for this pilot project.(Representative/Shutterstock)
The Indian Railways is planning to modernise the local train system by introducing a metro-style controlled entry system at selected stations.
A pilot project will soon begin at 12 stations on the Western Railway line, including major stops like Bandra Terminus, Borivali, and Andheri, as well as nine stations in the Gujarat division.
According to Lokmat Times, a list of these stations has already been sent to the Railway Board, as confirmed by senior officials.
Why the Need for Change?
The local train system in Mumbai has been running for over 150 years, carrying millions of passengers every day. With the rising footfall and growing security concerns, the current system is struggling to cope. Just like the successful introduction of air-conditioned local trains, officials believe the time has come to bring in more structured and efficient travel methods.
What Will Change?
Under this new plan, entry and exit will be controlled—just like in the metro. Here’s what that means for you:
- Passengers will enter platforms only through designated routes.
- There will be proper ticket and security checks at entry points.
- Random access to platforms will no longer be allowed, reducing chaos.
- This system will help in reducing fare evasion and managing crowds better.
Benefits of the new system
This new system aims to bring in multiple improvements:
- Less crowding: Proper routes mean more organised entry and exit.
- Better safety: Tighter security checks reduce risks.
- No more fare dodging: Harder for people to travel without tickets.
- Smoother travel: Feels more coordinated and less chaotic, like the metro.
Currently, most railway stations don’t have the kind of layout that metro stations do. To solve this, the railway is building decks (elevated structures) at select stations in Mumbai.
These decks will soon house ticket counters, security checks, and entry gates to manage the flow of passengers. Officials believe this pilot project will act as a blueprint for future station upgrades across the country.
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