Mumbai Local Train Stations To Get Remote-Controlled Escalators By 2025

Central Railway (CR) has announced plans to install advanced digital sensors on all 164 escalators across its main and harbour lines, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report. The initiative aims to address the frequent stoppages faced by commuters. According to CR officials, the sensors will enable the remote restarting of escalators, significantly reducing the downtime from the current 25-30 minutes to just two to five minutes. The installation is expected to be completed within the first two months of 2025.

An internal study conducted by CR revealed that each escalator along routes from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Karjat/Kasara and CSMT to Panvel halts approximately 128 times a month. Of these, 110 stoppages occur manually when the red button on the handle is pressed. This often causes inconvenience, especially for elderly and differently abled passengers.

The study also highlighted that most stoppages occur on platforms where long-distance trains halt. Officials attributed this to misuse by commuters, including the elderly, women, coolies, and nuisance creators, either knowingly or accidentally pressing the stop button. CCTV footage has occasionally helped identify culprits, but no fines can be imposed under the Railway Act for such actions.

Currently, when an escalator stops, the incident is reported to the station master either by staff or through CCTV footage. The station master then assigns personnel to restart it manually or arranges for private contractors if technical repairs are needed.

"The technological upgrade will leverage the Internet of Things (IoT) to enable remote control of escalators from a centralised office," explained a CR official in the HT report. "This will drastically cut the waiting time for commuters and ensure smoother operations."

CR's efforts aim to enhance passenger convenience and reduce escalator downtime, particularly during peak hours. The new system is part of the railway's broader initiative to modernise infrastructure and improve commuter experience.