Indian Railways has introduced the first non-AC local train equipped with an automatic door-closing system for the Mumbai suburban network. The 12-coach rake arrived at the Kurla Carshed on April 13, 2026, and is set to undergo rigorous certification trials. This development aims to eliminate the practice of open-door travel, which has been a major safety concern for commuters in the city.
🗞️: India-Pakistan Border: New 827 km railway corridor approved in Rajasthan to boost strategic security।
Key features and passenger capacity of the new rake
The new train was manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and includes several upgrades over traditional EMUs. The doors are designed to open in approximately 3 seconds and close in 4 seconds, featuring an interlocking mechanism that prevents the train from moving until all doors are shut. To ensure ventilation in a non-AC environment, the coaches are fitted with larger windows and roof-mounted ventilation systems.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Passenger Capacity | 5,698 (1,003 sitting, 4,695 standing) |
| Coach Configuration | 8 Second Class and 4 First Class coaches |
| Safety Systems | Anti-drag mechanism and emergency communication |
| Arrival Date | April 13, 2026 |
| Trial Duration | Expected to last approximately three months |
| Target Goal | Prevention of footboard travel and accidental falls |
Implementation timeline and safety objectives
Central Railway officials, including Chief Public Relations Officer Swapnil Nila, confirmed that the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) will conduct stability and obstacle checks during the trial phase. This project was initiated following a safety directive in 2025 to curb accidents caused by overcrowding. The train also features sealed gangways for smooth movement between coaches and a modified alarm mechanism for emergencies. If the trials are successful, the train is expected to open for public use by July 2026.