Stench of Dead Rodents Forces Motormen Out of CSMT Lobby Again

For the second time in a week, stench from dead rodents forced suburban train motormen and managers to sit outside their rest area at CSMT. Despite regular use by hundreds of staff, maintenance has been neglected. The issue remains unresolved even after a high-profile inspection by the Union railway minister.

For the second time in a week, the stench of dead rodents forced suburban train motormen and managers to vacate their designated resting area at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) on Wednesday.

During the evening rush, numerous on-duty motormen and train managers were seen occupying chairs in the suburban concourse of CSMT. The situation was similar on July 22, with the strong stench making it unbearable to stand inside the lobby, according to a train manager who wished to remain anonymous.

Another train manager reported that 15-20 dead rodents were found in the lobby, raising concerns about consuming food in the area. He also noted the lack of alternative arrangements for drinking water. Despite hundreds of staff using the lobby daily, the railway administration has not addressed cleaning and maintenance issues, claims another. Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, stated that the false ceiling and AC ducts in the lobby were being cleaned to remove any remaining dead rodents. The situation persists despite a recent inspection by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on July 20.