Watchdog Foundation Urges MMRDA to Add Fans on Metro Red and Yellow Lines
Commuter rights group Watchdog Foundation has urged the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to install fans and cooling arrangements at Metro stations across Mumbai, particularly on the Red and Yellow lines, to relieve passengers from severe heat and humidity.
In a letter sent to MMRDA officials on Saturday, the organisation stated that while Metro trains offer air-conditioned travel, platforms, concourses, and waiting areas at several stations lack adequate ventilation and cooling facilities. The foundation pointed out that the issue becomes particularly challenging during hot and humid weather for commuters waiting for trains.
“The contrast is striking. Passengers travel in air-conditioned Metro coaches but are required to stand and wait on hot and poorly ventilated platforms without even basic fan arrangements,” the letter stated.
The foundation highlighted that vulnerable commuter groups, including senior citizens, children, women, persons with disabilities, and passengers carrying heavy luggage, are among the worst affected by the conditions on station platforms.
To address the issue, the group has sought a station-wise inspection by authorities and the installation of ceiling fans, high-volume industrial fans, or other suitable air-circulation systems. The foundation requested these installations across platforms, concourses, entry and exit points, and general waiting zones, noting that the equipment should be placed without compromising commuter safety or train operations.
Advocate Godfrey Pimenta, trustee of the Watchdog Foundation, said providing basic cooling arrangements was a relatively simple measure that could significantly improve the commuting experience for thousands of daily passengers. The organisation has asked the MMRDA to treat the matter with urgency and share details regarding proposed actions and timelines for implementation.
