Following a recent train accident, the Maharashtra government publicly considered converting all local trains into air-conditioned ones without increasing fares. However, when it comes to providing basic medical assistance on local routes, the government appears indifferent. Out of 100 stations on the Central Railway route, 85 stations do not have ambulances deployed, leading to avoidable deaths due to lack of timely medical care for injured passengers.
A tragic incident in Mumbra claimed the lives of four passengers due to overcrowding on a local train. This incident has brought serious flaws in commuter safety on Central Railway routes into the spotlight. The state government has failed to ensure emergency medical assistance for railway passengers.
During a hearing of RTI activist Samir Zaveri’s petition, the High Court had ordered that ambulances be stationed at all suburban railway stations. In response, the government deployed 108 helpline ambulances across all 32 stations from Churchgate to Virar on the Western Railway line. However, on Central Railway, ambulances are missing at 85 out of 100 stations. This stark contrast has angered commuters, who are questioning the government’s apathy toward passenger safety while it continues to make tall claims about commuter facilities.
Parking Problems Add to Woes
According to an official associated with the 108 helpline service, many railway stations lack adequate space for ambulance parking. This logistical hurdle prevents ambulances from being stationed at the premises. However, a senior Central Railway official claimed that sufficient parking space is available at all stations, contradicting the ambulance service’s statement.
Currently, only 15 Central Railway stations — including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Dadar, and Mulund — have ambulance services. Even major stations like Thane are on this limited list. RTI activist Samir Zaveri has urged the government to immediately deploy 108 helpline ambulances at all suburban railway stations, in compliance with the High Court’s directive.
