Dombivli: Commuters at the busy Dombivli railway station are frustrated over the lack of fans and indicators on the extended portion of platform number four in the Kalyan direction, an issue that has persisted for the last four years despite repeated complaints, Loksatta reported.
Expansion Left Facilities Incomplete
Central Railway expanded platforms across its suburban network to accommodate 12- and 15-coach local trains. At Dombivli, the Kalyan-side extension of platform number four allows 15-coach trains to halt there. However, the 10-coach section in the extended area still lacks basic passenger amenities.
While the Diva-side of platform number four is equipped with fans and indicators, the Kalyan-side extension offers none. Even in rainy weather, passengers rushing to board trains face discomfort due to the heat and lack of ventilation. The absence of indicators adds to commuter confusion during rush hours.
Past Action Only After Complaints
Similar issues had earlier existed on platform number five (lamp side) of the station, where the railway administration installed fans and indicators only after sustained complaints from passenger groups.
Lata Argade, President of the Suburban Railway Passengers’ Federation, told Loksatta it is wrong for the railways to act only after passengers raise objections.
“Fans, indicators, and benches should be provided immediately in the expanded area of Dombivli station,” she said, urging the authorities to take proactive measures.
