Mumbai gets its first non-AC local train with automatic doors, now in safety trials
The 12-coach rake from Chennai's ICF has louvred doors and sensors that reopen if someone is blocking them.
- 12-coach rake built at ICF Chennai
- Trials first, then fitness certificate
- Concern: longer station halts
The train
Mumbai has received its first non-AC suburban local with automatic sliding doors, built at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai. The louvred door panels let air in while the doors stay shut, roof ventilators add airflow, and sensors reopen the doors if a person or object blocks them. Other upgrades include more legroom, CCTV, fire detection and emergency communication.
What next
Trials will test braking, acceleration, suspension, bogies, electrical systems and the doors, and the train needs a fitness certificate before regular service. Officials worry that automatic doors could lengthen station halts and hurt peak-hour punctuality, which will be assessed. The push follows a serious 2025 incident involving open doorways.
