How special are these ladies’ special trains

Veda Ramaswamy speaks to women to get a feel of the issue

The Matrubhoomi or ladies’ special trains introduced on the Central Railway’s harbour line has proved to be a boon for the 35,000-odd women commuters in Navi Mumbai within two years of its launch.

Earlier, there were only two ladies special trains running between Panvel and CST. Due to its success, last August four new ladies specials were introduced on the trans-harbour Thane-Vashi-Panvel route. This service has proved to be of timely convenience to the women commuters. Not only has it facilitated comfortable traveling, but has also ensured the safety of women travellers owing to the presence of the Mahila Vahini, an all women constable squad in such trains. Women commuters enjoy the luxury of space, seats and cordial environment in such trains; things which they are deprived of otherwise.

However, there have also been issues about men boarding these trains despite repeated warnings. In spite of announcements being made to make the passengers aware about the arrival of the ladies’ special train, there have been many instances where men deliberately board the train to avoid the rush in regular locals.

What do women of Navi Mumbai feel about this exclusive railway service, their safety on such trains and other such issues, if any, associated with the service? DNA Navi Mumbai asked the frequent railway women commuters and here is what they have to say.