In aftermath of Mumbai stampede, Railway minister promises escalators, foot bridges and more

Mumbai: A day after the devastating stampede at the Elphinstone station here, Railways Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday announced a slew of safety measures including more manpower and additional escalators at crowded suburban stations.

He also said that from now on the Foot Over Bridges (FOBs) would be deemed mandatory and not just a public amenity.

At least 23 people were killed and more than 30 others injured in a horrific stampede during the rush hour here on Friday.

Goyal said, "We are turning a 150-year-old convention on its head, hereafter, FOBs (Foot Over Bridges) will be deemed mandatory not a passenger amenity."

"Additional escalators sanctioned at crowded Mumbai suburban stations and thereafter for all high traffic stations," the minister added.

The ministry also plans to relocate 200 officers from the headquarters as field staff to enhance ground operations.

"200 officers to be relocated from Head Quarters as field staff to strengthen ground operations and project implementation," Goyal said in a series of tweets after holding a meeting with Railway Board officials here.

He also said that to eliminate bureaucracy and delays, "I have empowered GMs to spend whatever is necessary on safety."

(With agency inputs)