shot-button
Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesh Chaturthi
Home > News > Opinion News > Article > Flawed FOBs can spell disaster in city commuting

Flawed FOBs can spell disaster in city commuting

Updated on: 08 January,2021 07:22 AM IST  |  Mumbai
The Editorial |

Railway commuters at Dombivli have complained that the new foot overbridge (FOB) built at the station's Kalyan-end has a design flaw

Flawed FOBs can spell disaster in city commuting

This picture has been used for representational purpose

Railway commuters at Dombivli have complained that the new foot overbridge (FOB) built at the station's Kalyan-end has a design flaw. The staircase, they claim, has very steep steps. This means the height is risky, especially for senior citizens.


People who are going to use the bridge are questioning the wisdom of this design individually and through an organisation called the Bharatiya Rail Yatri.



Commuters have said that the stairs are so steep, it is almost like having a ladder.


Fortunately, our prominent report cites a senior Railway official stating that they are working towards easing the situation. There are plans to instal a railing in the centre, to help people negotiate the stretch.

It is good to see an official actually responding to questions but we want to see verbal assurances converted into action. Let them not remain placatory noises. Today, the bridge may not be as crowded, but we have to imagine a pandemic-free peak-time scenario.

A packed bridge, which is common during peak commuting time, should also be a safe one. Mumbaikars know the pell-mell rush to catch trains, the hurry to alight, to use the bridge and take the rickshaw home.

A fall by one commuter or a couple of them would spell disaster during rush hour.

Let all our infra projects put safety on their top rung. Vision should follow and in some cases, it will also benefit to have a people's organisation giving inputs at the inception stage itself.

This applies to all city projects so that alterations are not needed. Frequently, we have seen infra dismantled, simply because there was no need or because of other concerns. Put an end to this, make it as close to perfect on the start line itself.

Keep scrolling to read more news

Catch up on all the latest Crime, National, International and Hatke news here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates.

Mid-Day is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@middayinfomedialtd) and stay updated with the latest news

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK