Sealdah division allows men to board women’s special Matribhoomi locals

In a significant change, the Sealdah Division of Indian Railways has announced that men will now be allowed to travel in select coaches of the women’s special Matribhoomi local trains. The decision was officially declared on Saturday, aiming to balance passenger comfort and coach utilization.

Eklavya Chakraborty, Senior Public Relations Officer of Sealdah Division, stated that while the number of women’s coaches has already been increased in regular locals, the Matribhoomi specials have been running below capacity in some segments. To optimize this, a few coaches will now be categorized as general coaches, accessible to both men and women.

This change comes amid growing concerns from male passengers about shrinking space in general compartments. Protests have been reported at a few stations under the Sealdah Division, where commuters alleged discomfort and overcrowding due to reduced general coach availability.

However, the Railways has assured that the safety and comfort of women passengers will not be compromised. Officials explained that unused capacity in some women-only trains prompted the reallocation. “This arrangement is designed to ensure better utilization while maintaining safe travel for all,” said Chakraborty.

The move is expected to ease pressure on general coaches during peak hours, especially for male passengers traveling in and around Kolkata’s suburban railway network. Regular commuters have welcomed the decision in part, though some women’s rights groups have expressed concerns regarding the enforcement of safety in mixed coaches.

Railway officials clarified that signage and proper demarcation will be maintained in the trains, with reserved coaches for women continuing to operate as usual. Monitoring and feedback will also help refine the initiative going forward.