Mumbai’s Monorail service is facing another delay as Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is yet to finalise a foolproof evacuation plan for passengers stranded on an elevated section. Although the service has undergone upgrades, including the induction of new rakes, and received the required safety clearances, officials said the evacuation mechanism remains a key hurdle before operations can resume.
Evacuation plan still under study
The operating agency, Mumbai Monorail Operations and Maintenance Pvt Ltd, has sought assistance from IIT Bombay and Medha Servo Drives to assess possible evacuation methods. One proposal involves installing walkways along the elevated guideways so passengers can safely exit a stranded train. However, IIT Bombay has raised concerns about the feasibility of carrying out additional construction on the existing elevated structure.
Rescue rakes and emergency lifts being considered
The MMRDA is also examining the use of man lifts during emergencies. However, officials said deploying them could be challenging along congested stretches in Chembur, Wadala and Mahalaxmi, where the elevated corridor passes over slums and nullahs.
Another option is to use a rescue rake on the opposite track. A second train could be positioned alongside the stranded rake, allowing passengers to move across using a temporary bridge. The method has been used during earlier Monorail emergencies. Officials, however, said a separate backup mechanism would still be needed if a rescue rake cannot reach the stranded train.
Safety concerns over overcrowding and tilting
Authorities are also examining the possibility of a rake tilting on sharp curves due to overcrowding. The Monorail draws power through its guideways. A tilt or excessive load could disrupt the electrical connection, potentially affecting the opening of emergency doors and the air-conditioning system. The agency is therefore studying mechanical rescue options from both sides of the guideway. Medha Servo Drives is yet to submit its recommendations.
MMRDA examines gaps along guideways
Separately, the MMRDA is looking at ways to cover gaps between sections of the elevated guideways to prevent objects from falling onto roads below. A senior MMRDA official said the issue was being examined from a safety perspective, as even small objects falling from the elevated structure could pose a risk to pedestrians and vehicles.
Meanwhile, finishing work at Monorail stations is continuing. MMRDA has not announced a fresh date for the resumption of services.
