Unidentified railway deaths in Mumbai have surged, with over 31% of victims remaining unclaimed during the past 17 years, raising serious concerns about the system’s ability to identify and honor them. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

From 2008 to 2024, more than 50,000 people lost their lives in train-related incidents across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, according to GRP data. Nearly 15,725 victims remain unrecognized, reflecting major flaws in identification practices.

Mumbai Railway Deaths Highlight Identification Challenges
A few years ago, the GRP maintained a site, ‘Shodh,’ that posted pictures and information about unidentified victims of accidents. It served to trace missing family members, but the initiative later closed down. (File photo)

GRP officials explained that many victims were migrant laborers, ragpickers, and homeless individuals with no documents or contact details. They store bodies for up to 45 days while attempting fingerprint scans and DNA tests.

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Earlier, GRP managed a website called Shodh to share photos of unidentified victims, but it shut down. Activists argue that technology, including Aadhaar-linked biometrics, could provide solutions to minimize unidentified deaths.

Authorities Propose Aadhaar Integration to Reduce Deaths

Officials recommend Aadhaar-enabled fingerprint verification at morgues to confirm identities instantly. This would save costs and time while restoring dignity to victims. Portable biometric devices could deliver faster results and bring closure to grieving families.

Currently, GRP coordinates with hospitals and municipal agencies for cremations based on religion wherever possible. Costs vary by ambulance charges, morgue fees, and cremation expenses. Rarely, families appear after rites are complete, forcing reliance on stored records.

Experts Stress Technology to Prevent Future Deaths

Rail activist Samir Zaveri insists systemic upgrades are critical. While CCTV, fencing, and footbridges have reduced trespassing, overcrowding and unsafe boarding still cause fatalities. “Every person deserves recognition in life and dignity in death,” he said.

Source: indianexpress.com

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