Newssuper,Kolkata, 25th March, 2025:In a bid to accommodate ever increasing rush of women commuters, Sealdah Division is pleased to announce significant enhancement in seating capacity for women passengers by adding more ladies’ coaches in 3 phase EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) rakes operating in the Suburban Section.
At present there are two coaches earmarked for ladies in EMU locals, which seems inadequate for increasing rush of passengers particularly during rush hours. The situation is being somehow handled now by running some ladies special trains, i.e., Matribhumi local trains. After critically examining the situation, competent authority has decided to increase more coaches reserve for ladies in 3 phase EMU rakes. Generally, the second coach from both ends of EMU locals are earmarked for ladies. Now a portion of 3rd coach (from both end) of each 3-phase EMU rakes will be restricted for ladies only.
Sealdah Division is the busiest Railway junction in India, catering about 15 – 18 lakh rail users a day. There are large number of ladies passenger availing suburban services in Sealdah Main, North & South Sections. In recent past, the number of lady passengers have increased substantially in view of increasing participation of women in every walks of life, particularly in education and service sectors. This eventually necessitates increase of ladies coaches.
Previously, 9-bogie EMU rakes were equipped with 2 ladies coaches. Recognizing the growing need and to provide more comfortable and convenient travel for all women commuters, the upgraded 12-bogie EMU trains will now feature three dedicated ladies coaches.
Augmentation of more ladies coaches will certainly streamline passenger flow, reduce congestion and improve overall train operations. Besides, more ladies coaches will reduce the risk of sexual harrassment and facilitate women to travel safely and independently.
This proactive step by Sealdah Division/Eastern Railway, is aimed at making Suburban travel more convenient and stress free for women commuters. In a nutshell, more ladies coaches in suburban EMU locals will promote women safety, comfort and empowerment.
