Passengers Trapped in Chennai MRTS Lift for Two Hours After Technical Snag
In a distressing incident at Puzhuthivakkam MRTS station in Chennai, a total of 17 passengers, including four children, were trapped inside a lift for approximately two hours on Sunday night. This alarming event occurred barely 15 days after the inauguration of the new Velachery-St Thomas Mount MRTS stretch, casting a shadow over the railway's safety protocols and maintenance standards.
Panic and Rescue Efforts Unfold
The ordeal began around 9:30 PM when passengers entered the lift to descend to the ground floor. The lift suddenly developed a technical snag and became stuck between the first and second floors. Panic quickly set in as the emergency contact numbers displayed inside the lift failed to connect, leaving those trapped in a state of helplessness.
Using their mobile phones, the passengers contacted friends and family, who promptly alerted the fire and rescue services as well as the police. A swift response team from the Velachery fire station and Adambakkam police rushed to the scene. After nearly two hours of intense efforts, rescue personnel managed to open the top panel of the lift. The children were evacuated first, followed by the remaining passengers, with all 17 individuals safely brought out by around 12:02 AM on Monday. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Public Outrage and Railway Response
Relatives and local residents gathered at the station, expressing significant anger over what they described as negligence by railway authorities. Tensions escalated when railway staff allegedly questioned why passengers had opted to use the lift instead of stairs or escalators, a response that further fueled public frustration.
K Bhaskar, a former member of the Divisional Railway Users' Consultative Committee (DRUCC), strongly criticized the incident, stating, "It is an embarrassment for railways. In many stations, either lifts are down for maintenance or no lifts are installed. In a new station such as Puzhuthivakkam, lifts should have been in proper condition. The railways should take action against the maintenance department and fine the company from where the lift is procured."
In contrast, railway officials attributed the malfunction to overcrowding, asserting that technical checks confirmed the system failed because more people than the permitted capacity were inside the lift. This explanation has done little to assuage concerns, with critics pointing out the absence of Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel at the station during the incident, as reported by some passengers.
Broader Implications for Railway Safety
This incident highlights critical issues in railway infrastructure and passenger safety, particularly in newly inaugurated facilities. The lack of functional emergency contacts and delayed rescue efforts underscore the need for improved maintenance and stricter adherence to safety protocols. As Chennai continues to expand its public transport network, ensuring the reliability and safety of such amenities remains paramount to prevent future occurrences and restore public trust.
