Bella Jaisinghani TNN
Mumbai: The attack on American social worker Michelle Marks on a local train near Marine Lines when she was alone in a compartment has reinforced the fear in many commuters. Anxiety peaks on certain stretches of the local train network that are crime-prone, particularly among lone travellers.
Typically, the tracks are poorly lit in these areas. So once the sun sets, it is tough to spot an intruder before he gets in. And it is not just women who fear for their safety if a coach is empty, even men are on their guard.
The stretch between Mumbai Central and Churchgate on the Western
line evokes fear in commuters headed towards town, particularly during non peak hours. The infamous attack on Jayabala Ashar took place here, as did the latest assault on Marks.
“On my night shift, I take the Churchgate fast local from Andheri after 5pm. The compartment is deserted after Dadar and Mumbai Central. I am often alone as few people are headed towards town at that hour. I am on edge during the last mile,” said Andheri resident Shreyasi Navare, who works at a printing press at Nariman Point. Commuters dread the unscheduled halts during a journey.
The Harbour line has its own creepy stretch between Masjid and Reay Road. “Young boys who perform stunts get into the women’s coaches and misbehave. It’s futile asking them to get off because they travel in groups every day and can retaliate,” said Sharda Solanki, a helper at a Sewri hospital.
The Central Railway line has its own problem spots like Byculla, Kurla, Ghatkopar and some beyond city limits that have witnessed their own share of unsavoury incidents. Often policemen on duty board the ladies coach at night from Masjid, leaving the dark stretch from CST to Masjid unattended.
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