"Human life has no value here": Raj Thackeray on Mumbra train accident

Four people tragically died in a train accident at Mumbra railway station in Thane on Monday, sparking strong criticism from political leaders. The incident, suspected to be caused by an excessively crowded train, occurred on the Down/Fast Line, disrupting local train services and highlighting the perilous conditions faced by Mumbai's daily commuters. Passengers traveling towards Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) reportedly fell from the overcrowded train, underscoring a recurring problem of insufficient infrastructure and overwhelming passenger numbers.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray condoled the loss of life and launched a scathing attack on the Mahayuti-led state government, accusing it of prioritizing elections over the real issues plaguing the populace. "The train accident that happened in Mumbai today is unfortunate. Many passengers died in this accident, but similar incidents are happening in Mumbai every day," he stated, questioning the government's inaction. Thackeray further lamented the lack of a separate governing corporation for Mumbai Railways, a long-standing demand that has consistently been ignored by successive governments.

The MNS chief also expressed his dismay at the overall collapse of city planning, criticizing the uncontrolled influx of people and the lack of foresight in developing infrastructure like parking and traffic management. He recounted his own past experiences of traveling by train in Mumbai, noting the drastic deterioration of conditions, and questioned whether political leaders learn anything from their trips abroad regarding public transport. Echoing his sentiments, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also lambasted Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, labeling him a "reel mantri" and holding the railway department responsible for the fatalities, demanding his resignation.