MRPS Urges Sharad Pawar to Address Urgent Rail Safety Concerns

The Mumbai Rail Pravasi Sangh (MRPS), a prominent commuters’ organization, met with Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharadchandra Pawar on March 14, 2024, to discuss critical issues affecting suburban train passengers in Mumbai. The delegation, led by President Madhu Kotian, Vice President Siddhesh Desai, and Vandana Sonawane, presented a memorandum outlining pressing commuter concerns and essential infrastructure needs.

Among the significant demands from MRPS was the urgent initiation of the Kalwa–Airoli Railway Link Project, which is expected to alleviate congestion and enhance connectivity between Thane and Navi Mumbai. The organization also called for relocating long-distance trains to the Parsik (old) tracks, thereby reserving the new Thane-Diva lines exclusively for suburban services. This shift aims to prevent accidents and facilitate the introduction of hundreds of new local train services.

The delegation highlighted alarming safety statistics, revealing over 1,000 deaths and 1,800 injuries recorded between 2014 and 2024 along the Thane-Dombivli corridor. MRPS described the current situation as a “death track,” underscoring the urgent need for intervention to enhance safety standards.

In response, Sharad Pawar acknowledged the MRPS’s advocacy efforts spanning two decades. He assured the delegation that he would engage with relevant authorities, including the Central Railway, MRVC, CIDCO, and MMRDA, to facilitate coordinated action aimed at addressing the outlined concerns.

The MRPS expressed gratitude for Pawar’s support and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering safer, faster, and more commuter-friendly suburban rail services in Mumbai. With the city’s rail network being a lifeline for millions, the outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the daily commute of countless passengers.

As Mumbai continues to evolve, the need for improved infrastructure and safety measures remains a priority for both commuters and policymakers alike. The MRPS delegation’s meeting with Pawar marks a crucial step toward addressing these long-standing issues, with hopes for a swift resolution that meets the needs of the city’s rail users.