The Mumbai Rail Pravasi Sangh (MRPS) has publicly expressed its gratitude to Union Railway Minister for launching a pilot implementation of critical crowd control measures at Mumbai’s railway stations.
The move, welcomed by commuter groups and local passengers alike, is seen as a vital step toward improving commuter safety in one of the world’s most densely packed suburban rail networks. For years, MRPS President Madhu Kotian and Vice President Siddhesh Desai have been urging the Railway Board to introduce structural and operational reforms to address the rising passenger load, particularly during peak hours. With crowding posing daily risks of injury, MRPS has consistently advocated for practical solutions to reduce the burden on platforms and staircases. “These initial measures are a milestone in our ongoing efforts to protect commuters,” the MRPS said in a statement. “We appreciate the responsiveness of the ministry and believe this will set the groundwork for long-term improvements.”
The trial crowd control system is expected to reduce congestion during rush hours and help manage passenger movement more efficiently. MRPS has also called for close collaboration between railway authorities and Mumbai Police to manage crowding outside station premises—particularly in areas around entrances and ticket counters. “Crowd control can’t stop at the platform,” the statement noted. “External coordination is essential to create a holistic solution that covers station premises and access points.” In addition, MRPS has suggested a proactive strategy to ease congestion by incentivising off-peak travel. The commuter body has proposed reduced fares for non-peak hours as a way to spread foot traffic more evenly throughout the day. “Lower ticket prices during non-peak hours will not only offer relief to daily travellers but also reduce infrastructure strain during rush periods,” said Kotian. “We hope authorities will consider this step to further improve the travel experience.”
While the full impact of these crowd control initiatives will take time to assess, MRPS has appealed to the public for cooperation and patience during the transition. Commuters are being encouraged to follow new movement protocols and remain alert to station announcements. With over 75 lakh passengers relying on Mumbai’s suburban railway system daily, safety and system efficiency remain top priorities for both advocacy groups and authorities. MRPS reiterated its commitment to work alongside railway officials in ensuring that Mumbai’s rail network becomes safer and more commuter-friendly.
