Safety comes first!

Recording cameras on each train running during all hours of operation and closed-circuit TV cameras throughout the stations constantly recording and monitoring all Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs), platforms, and escalators are among the list of safety and security measures being outlined for the monorail project.

An artistic impression of the monorail planned by MMRDA

The monorail project is being done by Larsen and Toubro and Scomi Engineering and the safety measures are now being discussed for implementation. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is financing the first phase at Rs 2,460 crore and hopes to finish it by 2011. The 19.54 km monorail would connect Gadge Maharaj Chowk to Wadala, and Wadala to Chembur via Mahul.

Ratnakar Gaikwad, metropolitan commissioner said, "We are in the process of sorting out the security and safety concerns involved in the monorail project." Some of the suggestions include manning of station areas with trained security personnel with CCTV monitoring on the entire system; use of fire-resistant materials during station construction etc, and equipment of coaches with an audio-visual passenger information system. Special elevators for senior citizens are also being planned. The Authority has also suggested a set of emergency procedures to be formulated to deal with emergency situations. 

The operational staff is being trained to respond during emergencies through periodic simulated exercises as laid down in the Disaster Management Manual. In the set of guidelines, the main emphasis is being laid on the emergency fire escape mechanism and trained staff which would be able to handle the rescue and fire fighting operations.

According to MMRDA officials escape routes and exits have been planned and they will have clear markings, which will be visible even through smoke in case there is a fire. Officials said that there would be an Operation Control Centre (OCC) which would manage passenger security and the information system . "The monorail will have a capacity to ferry 22 lakh commuters so it is really essential to have an upgraded security network," a senior transport planner from MMRDA, K Vijaya Lakshmi said.