MUMBAI: Central Railway has decided to permanently close a gate near the Kalwa Car Shed after repeated incidents of passengers attempting to board empty local train rakes from an unauthorized location, posing a serious risk to life and safety.Railway officials observed that between 8 am and 8.30 am, commuters routinely trespass through the main entry gate near the shed and try to board an empty rake halted at a signal outside the yard.Authorities warned that the practice is extremely dangerous, as passengers could suffer serious injuries or fatalities if the train begins moving after receiving a signal.To curb the risk, Central Railway will permanently close the gate in coordination with other departments.Officials are also examining the possibility of eliminating the halt of empty rakes at the signal, subject to operational and safety considerations.The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has been deployed at the site to prevent trespassing and ensure commuter safety.Central Railway stressed that boarding or alighting from trains in car sheds, yards, signal locations or any non-passenger area is a punishable offence under the Railways Act. Strict legal action will be initiated against offenders.The railway administration has appealed to passengers to board and deboard trains only from designated station platforms and cooperate with safety regulations.“Passenger safety is of paramount importance,” officials said, urging commuters to avoid unauthorized boarding practices.Passengers requiring assistance can contact the Railway Helpline on 139 or approach the nearest on-duty railway staff.
