Railways are considering new non-AC trains with automated door closures in light of the Mumbai train disasters.

A prototype of the new non-AC train will be designed by ICF Chennai; the first train of the new design should be completed by November 2025, and after testing, it might be put into service by January 2026.

Mumbai Train Accident: What Happened?

On the morning of June 9, 2025, Mumbai witnessed a heart-wrenching tragedy when passengers fell from an overcrowded local train between Mumbra and Diva stations. Reports indicate that at least five people lost their lives, while several others were injured in the incident. 

The accident occurred around 9:30 am, during peak office hours, when two busy trains crossed each other. Passengers, forced to hang from the doors and footboards due to severe overcrowding, lost their balance and fell onto the tracks as the trains brushed past each other.

Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene. "Something hit the compartment, and before we knew it, people were falling off," recounted a shaken commuter. Among the deceased was an on-duty Railway Police constable, highlighting the risk faced by both passengers and staff.

Why Did the Mumbai Train Accident Happen?

Overcrowding is a persistent issue on Mumbai’s suburban rail network, especially during rush hour. The accident is believed to have been caused by passengers hanging from the doors and footboards as two trains passed each other in opposite directions. The close proximity and the sheer number of commuters led to a loss of balance and the tragic fall.

Railway officials and safety experts have long warned about the dangers of overcrowding and the need for better crowd management and infrastructure upgrades.