Railway stations must be monsoon-ready

Pic/PTI

Recent platform widening work currently underway at Thane station and CSMT due to which Central Railway (CR) was under a mega block created huge challenges for commuters. At CSMT labourers were seen working on the extension of platform numbers 10 and 11 to accommodate 24-coach trains from the earlier
16 coaches.

Recently, CR posted a video on X which showed platform widening work underway at platform numbers 5 and 6 at Thane station.

Last week, CR formally announced the cancellation of 930 local train services. Several mail-express and suburban trains were short-terminated and short-originated from various stations.

While one is happy that the work has been over before the onset of the rainy season, this is even more reason to ensure that our stations are monsoon-ready, as rains are expected any day now.

Railways, do make sure indicators are working perfectly. Visibility and accuracy are paramount. Ensure that the announcement system is in working order, easy to hear and most of all superlative quality. Clear, crisp announcements spell clarity and are in fact, the big difference between disaster and safety.

Platforms must have good signage, visible and complete from a distance too. Any undulating or cordoned-off patch must be highlighted to prevent mishaps. Blinking, neon signage is a good idea, considering overcast skies in this season.

Any broken steps or railings need to be fixed in double quick time as slick staircases spell double trouble during the monsoon. Platform roofs have to be in place so that people are shielded from the rain. Impossible crowds that congregate in one place, jostling and shoving to be under a small space are hugely dangerous. Action stations as the heavens open up.