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DMRC Trials Anti-Drag System to Boost Passenger Safety

2025-07-31

To improve commuter safety, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has begun testing an anti-drag system designed to prevent incidents where passengers or their belongings—such as sarees, bags, or clothing—get trapped in closing train doors. This initiative comes in the wake of a tragic 2023 accident in which a woman lost her life after her garment got stuck in a moving train.

Currently, one train has been retrofitted with the new system and is undergoing testing. Over the next one to two years, DMRC plans to equip four more trains with the feature. The system detects obstructions, even if the doors appear shut, and automatically applies emergency brakes upon sensing pressure.

“Anti-drag is an advanced feature in the trains. If someone or something is stuck between gates, and if it senses pressure, it applies an emergency brake,” said DMRC Managing Director Vikas Kumar.

A DMRC official added, “DMRC has retrofitted one train with the anti-drag feature, which is under testing. Four more trains are also being fitted with the same. These trains will undergo detailed analysis and feedback, and based on the overall performance, the mechanism will be further explored for remaining trains or lines which may require the provision of this feature.”

The sensor’s sensitivity has been improved by reducing the threshold from 15mm to 7mm, although objects thinner than 7mm may still go undetected. Older metro lines are being prioritised for the retrofit, as newer corridors such as the Pink and Magenta lines already use platform screen doors (PSDs). Meanwhile, in-train announcements urge commuters to stay cautious with loose clothing and accessories.

News source: Swarajya