A “commuter satisfaction survey” carried out by the Indian Coach Factory (ICF), which manufactures the trains in the country, has brought to the fore what needs to be incorporated and improved in local train compartments.
The findings that were compiled by the ICF have revealed that many commuters need knee space between the two seats, as 42 per cent are unhappy with the present space. While 27 per cent said they are dissatisfied with the present seat design, 29 per cent believed that a headrest is necessary, 30 per cent feel that there should be socket points for cellphone and laptops, 31 per cent want additional signages while 25 per cent are not content with the height and size of the luggage rack.
A senior officer from the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation said, “There were 33 questions and customer satisfaction was high in most of the parameters. While there will be no changes in the existing coaches, the ICF carried out the survey to find out what changes and improvements can be made in the new rakes.”
The questions include need for socket points for cellphone and laptops, whether the present illumination inside is sufficient or not. There were other questions regarding if the present seats and cushions are comfortable, whether headrests are required, colour scheme, if windows let in water during monsoon, quality of announcement, flooring, etc.
In March this year, India Against Corruption had carried out the survey in the city for the first time to take the opinions of commuters for improving passenger amenities. There were 473 respondents to the survey in the new generation trains.
The MRVC has recommended certain changes in design for 72 rakes that are to be delivered in a span of two years for the suburban section.
Survey Findings
· 42 per cent revealed the need of more knee space between the two seats
· 27 percent stated that they are not satisfied with the present seat design
· 29 percent believed that a headrest is necessary
· 30 percent are of opinion that there should be a socket points for cellphone and laptops
· 31 percent want additional signages inside coaches
· 25 percent are not contented with the height and size of luggage rack.