The story of the Indian Railways is one of evolution and progress, deeply intertwined with the history and development of India itself. Since its inaugural journey between Mumbai and Thane in 1853, spanning a modest 34 kilometers, the Indian Railways has rapidly expanded, becoming the lifeline of the nation. Facilitating vital connections across regions for communication, commerce, and trade, the railways have played a pivotal role in integrating India’s diverse populace.
However, amidst its significance, Indian Railways grapples with pressing challenges, notably overcrowding. The relentless influx of passengers strains the infrastructure, particularly on heavily trafficked routes, leading to congestion issues. Moreover, the persistent problem of ticketless travel exacerbates the situation, with some passengers opting for unauthorized journeys due to financial constraints while others exploit the system to evade fare payment.
A recent incident aboard the Delhi Sarai Rohilla SF Express (Train No. 22949) shed light on these challenges. Kushal Mehra, a passenger traveling in the first AC coach, took to social media to narrate his ordeal.
Mehra described how ticketless passengers inundated the coach, impeding his access to essential facilities such as restrooms. Sharing images depicting the cramped conditions, Mehra’s post garnered widespread attention, prompting swift action from the authorities.
The horror on Train no 22949 Delhi Saria Rohilla train first ac continues. Outside my cabin right now when I woke up and went to use the washroom. I couldn't even click the others on the right as I couldn't walk past these women. I asked the attendant, and he says this is how it… pic.twitter.com/7gkdVf9oc9
— कुशल मेहरा (@kushal_mehra) May 2, 2024
This is the latest update right now. They're really relaxed and having a great chat discussing railway policy making I guess @RailMinIndia pic.twitter.com/dERmqeUDLb
— कुशल मेहरा (@kushal_mehra) May 2, 2024
Here’s what happened next:
And it gets cleared when they find out I tagged the minister. I am never traveling by trains ever again in my life. pic.twitter.com/dc84d8BviV
— कुशल मेहरा (@kushal_mehra) May 2, 2024
Following Mehra’s posts and subsequent tagging of the railway minister, measures were taken to address the unauthorized occupation of space outside the cabins. While the intervention led to the removal of the unauthorized occupants, Mehra expressed disillusionment, vowing to avoid train travel in the future.
If this is the situation in the First AC HA1 Coach, can't think of the 3rd AC & Sleeper class coaches. @AshwiniVaishnaw @drm_dli @RailwayNorthern @GM_NRlyhttps://t.co/lAmUxleeym
— Bobby / Seenoo 🇮🇳 బాబీ / శీనూ 🇮🇳 (@AbodeOfLakshmi) May 2, 2024
The incident sparked outrage among users, with many expressing dismay over the state of the first-class carriage and questioning the value of premium tickets in such circumstances.
@RailMinIndia you need to act strict on this passengers travelling without ticket. U charge hefty amount ( many time close to air fare) for AC tickets n allow such nuisance in an AC bogey? Shame on @IndianRailMedia .
— Vasant Shetty (@Vasantshetty75) May 2, 2024
As the video documenting the incident gained traction online, it prompted a broader conversation about the challenges facing the Indian Railways and the need for effective solutions to ensure a seamless travel experience for passengers across all classes.
