India, July 14 -- A packed AC local on Central Railway (CR) turned into a sweltering coach during Monday's rush after its air conditioning system malfunctioned for nearly 16 minutes, leaving two commuters ill and one hospitalised.

The malfunction occurred on the 8.33 am Titwala-CSMT service before it reached Mulund station, with the AC and ventilation system remaining non-functional between 9.38 am and 9.54 am. As the train was overcrowded with its automatic doors shut, passengers complained of suffocation, excessive heat and difficulty in breathing.

Three commuters, including Faheem Ansari, fell ill and were deboarded at Mulund station. While two recovered after first aid, Ansari was shifted to a private hospital as a precaution after ...