Feel unsafe while travelling on Mumbai Metro? Now, help is just a touch away

All a commuter has to do is click the red button on the mobile phone app to alert the Metro’s central security control room

Following cases of molestation reported on the Metro line, the Mumbai Metro One launched a security mobile application — Metro SecuCare — on Thursday. Commuters on the Metro-1 (Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar) route can use the app to transmit real-time information during emergencies.

In a recent case, a woman passenger was touched inappropriately and another verbally abused by a male passenger after an argument. (HT File)

All a commuter has to do is click the red button to alert the Metro’s central security control room. The control room will be able to ascertain the commuter’s exact location and will call him or her immediately.

Officials will also alert the station’s security control centre, which will enable a team to reach the commuter. The app also allows the commuter to record a video, which can be used as evidence later.

In a recent case, a woman passenger was touched inappropriately and another verbally abused by a male passenger after an argument.

In October, a woman commuter tweeted to Metro authorities and Mumbai police, saying a man was masturbating at the airport road station. “With Metro SecuCare, we intend to use the digital platform to enhance the safety of our commuters, particularly women, children, senior citizens and the differently abled,” said a Mumbai Metro One spokesperson.

The application, available on Android and iOS, also allows commuters to register eight people as guardians,who will also be alerted in case of an emergency.

However, the Metro security will get an alert only if the commuter is in the premises or 20 metres from the station. “If the emergency button is clicked outside Metro premises, only the guardians will be alerted,” an official from Metro One said.

The application will be linked to the Mumbai Metro app soon, he added.