Why the Mumbai train murder could not be prevented

India’s railway network, long considered the backbone of the nation’s transportation system, is currently grappling with a surge in diverse and increasingly sophisticated threats that challenge both public safety and operational integrity. From stone-pelting incidents to deliberate sabotage and even violent crimes committed aboard moving trains, the landscape of railway security has evolved dramatically in recent years. This shift has prompted authorities to reassess traditional approaches and implement new strategies to counteract these emerging dangers.

Over the past two years, reports indicate that thousands of incidents involving stone-pelting have occurred across the country, resulting in significant financial losses and injuries. According to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, between 2023 and early 2025, 7,971 instances of stone-pelting were documented, leading to the arrest of 4,549 individuals. These incidents have caused extensive damage to rolling stock, with zonal railways spending approximately Rs 5.79 crore on repairs. Notably, high-speed Vande Bharat trains have been particularly affected, suffering over Rs 55.60 lakh in damages since 2019, with 151 arrests made related to these cases. Incidents range from isolated acts of mischief by children to organized efforts aimed at disrupting services, often accompanied by thefts and other criminal activities.

The motivations behind these acts vary widely. Some incidents stem from the presence of unsupervised children near railway tracks, where lack of education and supervision leads to unintentional harm. Others arise from frustration among citizens due to unauthorized crossings, illegal factory worker commutes, or alcohol-related behavior. Additionally, there are reports of habitual offenders operating from informal settlements adjacent to railway lines, contributing to a complex web of challenges faced by law enforcement agencies.

In response to this multifaceted threat environment, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP) have intensified their efforts. Technological advancements such as drone surveillance, solar-powered cameras, and enhanced community engagement programs are being deployed to improve monitoring capabilities and foster cooperation with local populations. However, despite these measures, the sheer volume of daily commuters—reaching nearly one crore in Mumbai alone—presents unique logistical hurdles that complicate the implementation of robust security protocols akin to those found in airports or metro systems.

Recent tragic events have underscored the vulnerabilities inherent in the current setup. The murder of 22-year-old Mayank Lohar aboard a Mumbai suburban train highlighted the difficulty in preventing crimes within densely packed compartments. Despite the existence of numerous CCTV cameras, the absence of proactive screening mechanisms leaves the system exposed to potential threats. Moreover, the structural design of trains, which prioritize capacity over comfort, exacerbates tensions among passengers, occasionally escalating into physical altercations or worse.

As the frequency and severity of incidents continue to rise, experts argue that a comprehensive review of the existing security framework is essential. The division of responsibilities among different agencies—local police, GRP, and RPF—has created inefficiencies that hinder coordinated responses to evolving threats. With increasing pressure from stakeholders and the public, it remains to be seen whether proposed reforms will effectively address the underlying issues plaguing India’s railway system. Until then, the focus must remain on enhancing preventive measures and ensuring that the lifeblood of the nation’s connectivity remains secure and reliable for all users.