Kolkata, June 9 -- Train services on the Sealdah South section's Baruipur-Diamond Harbour line were disrupted for nearly an hour on Tuesday after a group of male commuters blocked Railway tracks at Hotar station, protesting against the increased allocation of coach space for women and demanding additional suburban services.
The blockade began around 8.20 am during peak office hours and affected train movement across the section. Demonstrations were also reported at South Durgapur, Kalyanpur, Dhamua and Magrahat stations, disrupting local services and inconveniencing commuters.
Railway officials, accompanied by personnel of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government Railway Police (GRP), reached the spot and held talks with the protesters.
Train movement gradually resumed after the blockade was withdrawn.
The agitation stemmed from a decision taken several months ago to increase the space reserved for women in 12-coach local trains. Besides two dedicated ladies' coaches, half of an adjoining general coach has been reserved for women passengers, effectively setting aside space equivalent to three coach sections.
Protesters alleged that passenger numbers on the Diamond Harbour line had increased steadily over the years while train services had remained largely unchanged. They claimed the reduction in general coach capacity had worsened overcrowding during rush hours, making it difficult to board trains and raising safety concerns.
"We understand that facilities for women passengers are necessary, but train services should be increased instead of reducing space in general coaches. Missing one train during office hours can mean reaching work late," said a daily commuter participating in the protest.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.