Mumbai to get 1st 12-car advanced EMU rake with auto doors

In a significant step towards improving commuter safety and comfort, the Central Railway is set to introduce its first 12-car non-AC advanced Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) rake in Mumbai’s suburban network, marking a major upgrade in the city’s high-density rail operations.The rake, named Medha and manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, comes equipped with an automatic door closure system an important safety enhancement aimed at reducing accidents in overcrowded suburban trains. The Central Railway has already taken delivery of the rake, which is currently stationed at the Kurla Car Shed.
According to information,before being deployed for passenger services, the train will undergo Confirmatory Oscillograph Car Run (COCR) trials conducted by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO). These specialised trials assess critical parameters such as speed, acceleration, oscillations, and ride quality to ensure the rake’s safety, stability, and operational efficiency.Officials said the initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ broader push to enhance commuter safety, particularly in densely populated suburban corridors like Mumbai. The introduction of automatic door closure in non-AC trains is being seen as a transformative step that improves safety without compromising on capacity or affordability.
The rake incorporates a range of passenger-centric features. It is fitted with automatic sliding doors with an anti-drag mechanism to prevent accidental falls and unsafe travel practices. Ventilation has been significantly improved through wider windows, roof-mounted ventilation units capable of supplying fresh air at 10,000 cubic metres per hour, and louvered door sections that facilitate airflow.Designed to improve passenger movement, the rake includes vestibule connectivity with half gangways in a 6+3+3 coach configuration, allowing better distribution of crowd and air circulation across coaches. Seating arrangements include stainless steel benches in second class and cushioned seats in first class, along with improved grab poles for enhanced passenger support.
Safety and emergency features have also been upgraded. The train is equipped with a modified emergency alarm system with an external reset provision, sliding doors and tubular partitions for evacuation, and wider ladders for better accessibility. Advanced smoke and heat detection systems, along with alert mechanisms in the driver’s cab, have been installed to ensure rapid response in emergencies.Security has been strengthened with CCTV cameras across all passenger coaches. Additionally, the rake includes crew-friendly features such as a Crew Voice and Video Recording System (CVVRS) and air-conditioned driving cabs to improve working conditions for train operators.The rake will also undergo Passenger Convenience and Safety trials, which will evaluate braking efficiency under varying conditions, passenger comfort levels, door operation systems, and integration with signalling networks.Officials said the train will be introduced into regular passenger service after successful completion of all trials and rectification of any deficiencies, marking a key milestone in modernising Mumbai’s suburban rail network.