Mumbai: In a major move to tackle the chronic overcrowding on Mumbai’s suburban railway network, the Maharashtra government announced flexible office timings for its employees. As per the plan, government staff will be allowed to report to work half an hour later than usual in an effort to reduce pressure during peak commuting hours. The announcement was made by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik during a session in the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday.
Sarnaik clarified that while office reporting times would be delayed, employees will be required to compensate for the relaxation by working an additional 30 minutes in the evening, ensuring there is no loss of productivity. The initiative is aimed at spreading out the commuting load and providing some breathing space to thousands of daily train travellers who endure jam-packed coaches every morning and evening.
The minister also informed the House that a dedicated task force would be formed soon to explore the possibility of implementing similar flexible work schedules in the private sector. This development comes in response to rising concerns about safety and the alarming number of fatalities on the city’s local train network.
Alarming Numbers Of Local Train Accident Deaths
Sarnaik, responding to a calling attention motion by BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar, revealed that 7,565 passengers have died and another 7,293 have been injured in suburban train accidents in the last three years. He acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, admitting that overcrowding remains a major challenge for Mumbai’s transport infrastructure.
Use Of Alternative Transport Options Encouraged
As part of broader efforts to ease commuter burden and ensure safer travel, the state government is also promoting the use of alternative transport options like the Metro, BEST buses and proposed water transport systems, including port taxis. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is expected to convene a meeting soon to address the growing risk of accidents, especially those involving passengers boarding overcrowded trains with doors left open.
Minister Sarnaik also stated that these changes are not short-term solutions but part of a long-term strategy to make Mumbai’s daily commute safer and more efficient. While adjusting office hours might seem minor, for lakhs of local train commuters, it could significantly reduce crowd density and improve daily travel conditions.
