Compared: The Overwhelming Congestion of Mumbai Local Trains vs. Delhi Metro

When comparing the overcrowding of public transportation systems in two major Indian cities, Mumbai and Delhi, it is clear that Mumbai Local Trains are significantly more congested and less safe than Delhi Metro. While Delhi Metro's passenger density is manageable, Mumbai Local Trains often have people hanging out and outside of the train carriages, posing a greater risk to commuters. This article delves into the stark differences and provides a historical perspective from personal observations in the 1980s and 1990s.

Overview of Mumbai Local Trains

Mumbai Local Trains, often referred to as Metro Rail, are an important mode of public transportation in the city. They are an integral part of daily life for millions of commuters, especially during peak hours. A visit to Mumbai in the 1980s and 1990s provided a firsthand experience of the overcrowding and its challenges.

Historical Perspective

Back in the 1980s, when I frequently visited Mumbai, I lodged with relatives in Kalina, Santa Cruz. My cousins advised me to start my journey by 10 am to secure a seat in the Churchgate-bound trains. It was indeed possible to find sitting space at that time. However, by the late 1990s, the situation had drastically changed. Trains were packed both at the beginning and the end of the journey, and missing one's stop became common due to the constant crowd pushing one around.

Personal Anecdote

During a particularly crowded rush hour, I made the mistake of boarding a local train. The experience was one of being squashed and almost unable to breathe. The train doors are much narrower, and the dense crowd made it virtually impossible to exit at the designated station. Commuters are pushed back and forth as new passengers board, creating an environment where one typically misses their stop.

Delhi Metro: A More Manageable Situation

Delhi Metro, on the other hand, operates more efficiently. The doors close automatically, limiting the number of passengers per train. This ensures that the trains are not overcrowded, making them a safer and more comfortable option for commuters.

Current Population and Statistics

According to recent data, Mumbai has a population of approximately 21 million (2.1 crores) as of 2023, making it the most populous city and state in India. In contrast, Delhi's population is around 30 million (3 crores). Additionally, Mumbai's geographical size is larger than that of Delhi. However, the density of passengers in Mumbai's Local Trains is significantly higher. The Mumbai Local Trains carry an estimated 75 lakh passengers daily, while Delhi Metro averages 22 lakh passengers per day.

Conclusion

Mumbai Local Trains are undoubtedly more crowded and often more dangerous than Delhi Metro. The high passenger density, especially during rush hours, makes them less safe and often more congested. Personal anecdotes and current statistics together paint a clear picture of the overwhelming congestion and its implications for commuters in these two major cities.