Mumbai: At least four passengers lost their lives and several others sustained injuries after falling from a moving local train between Mumbra and Diva stations during peak hours. The train was on the Down Fast line and heading towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). Preliminary findings suggest overcrowding played a major role in the tragedy.

Dr. Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, stated, “According to the Guard of the Kasara-bound train, eight individuals fell between Mumbra and Diva. All were rushed to nearby hospitals.”

Initial reports claimed five deaths, but the Railways has officially confirmed four fatalities.

Among the injured was Tushar Bhagat, a data operator who boarded the train at Titwala. Recalling the incident, he said, “An express train was passing as we approached a curve near Mumbra. The crowd at the door got compressed, and in trying to save themselves, they pulled others down. I fell too and don’t remember what happened next.”

Authorities believe the combination of extreme crowding and the train’s movement along a sharp curve contributed to the accident. It’s suspected that as a long-distance train, possibly the Pushpak Express, passed on the adjacent track, it may have created panic among passengers standing at the edge, causing them to fall.

In the wake of the incident, the Railway Board has announced immediate measures to enhance commuter safety. “All new rakes being built for Mumbai’s suburban trains will come equipped with automatic door-closing systems. Existing trains will also be modified to include these features,” said Dilip Kumar, Executive Director (Information & Publicity), Railway Board.

One of the deceased has been identified as Adesh Anant Bhoir from Aathgaon, Shahapur Taluka.

The incident has reignited long-standing concerns over overcrowding on Mumbai’s suburban trains. Passenger groups are once again urging authorities to prioritize commuter safety, especially with the resumption of academic sessions adding to the daily rush. DeshGujarat