Mumbai Locals To Get Safer With Automated Doors by 2026

12 Jun 2025 CW Team

In a landmark move to improve commuter safety and comfort, Indian Railways will introduce automated doors on Mumbai’s non-air-conditioned local trains by January 2026. This initiative follows a recent fatal incident on the Central line, which prompted urgent safety reassessments across the suburban network.

Developed by the Integral Coach Factory in collaboration with railway authorities, the project aims to modernise local train infrastructure, making Mumbai’s daily commute safer, more inclusive, and sustainable. The first train with automated doors is scheduled for completion by November 2025, with phased deployment beginning in early 2026 following comprehensive testing.

A key challenge addressed by the upgrade is ventilation. Since non-AC coaches will have closed doors, new carriages will include integrated air vents in doors and rooftop ventilation units to maintain optimal airflow and internal temperatures. These features are designed to ensure air quality and reduce heat build-up during peak hours.

The initiative also includes vestibule connections between all coaches, allowing free passenger movement throughout the train. This design improves comfort and safety by reducing overcrowding in specific compartments and promoting even distribution of passengers.

Railway officials emphasise that the project is not merely about technological enhancement but a shift towards more equitable, secure, and environmentally conscious urban mobility. With over 7.5 million daily users, Mumbai’s suburban rail is the city’s lifeline, and the new safety and design upgrades are expected to significantly improve passenger experience.

These developments align with the broader goal of creating low-carbon, liveable urban environments. By prioritising commuter well-being and sustainable transport solutions, Indian Railways is reaffirming its commitment to modern, people-centric infrastructure for a growing metropolis.

Infrastructure Urban

07 Oct 2025

India To Invest $37 Billion To Boost Petrochemical Capacity

India is set to become a major global player in the petrochemicals industry, driven by a planned capital expenditure of $37 billion (Rs 3.1 trillion) aimed at reducing import dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency, according to S&P Global Ratings.In its latest report titled “First China, Now India: Self-Sufficiency Goals Will Add To Petrochemicals Supply”, S&P said India’s large-scale capacity expansion—mirroring China’s earlier push—will likely intensify oversupply pressures in Asia’s petrochemical markets.Currently the world’s third-largest petrochemical consumer a..

Indian Railways Expands Global Exports Of Rail Equipment

Indian Railways has announced that it is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of railway equipment, including bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems, under the government’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.According to an official statement, India’s railway products are now reaching over 16 international markets, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to design, develop, and deliver world-class rail solutions.Metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada; bogies to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia; propulsion systems t..

RailTel Awards Rs 163 Million Contract To RTNS Technology

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking, has awarded a domestic work order worth Rs 163 million to RTNS Technology Private Limited.The contract, issued on 30 September 2025, involves the supply and installation of equipment and related services for one of RailTel’s key customers. The project underscores RailTel’s commitment to advancing technology and communication infrastructure through collaboration with domestic system integrators.RTNS Technology Private Limited, an ISO-certified system integrator, provides comprehensive solutions for perim..