Kolkata metro mishap: And this is how Tokyo manages its Metro rush

Muri na gojoshya wa oyame kudasai’ — a phrase ubiquitous on platforms of Tokyo Metro is a request to passengers to avoid boarding trains forcefully. It is quite incredible that the world’s densest train network does not see a proportionate number of accidents, albeit. The credit goes to an almost fool-proof system and disciplined commuters.
While walking down any platform in Tokyo, even during the busiest hours, one is awed by the calm of passengers.The numbers can reach triple digits if there’s an emergency or any delay. In spite of the hurry, people are lined up listening to the announcers. Often, when the trains are jam-packed, pushers request people to get off the train and catch the next one and once they are sure that no one’s getting off, they push the passengers in till the doors are completely shut. Even if the strap of a bag is caught in the door, the alarm will go off and the train won’t move.
In Tokyo, the deepest line runs 48 metres below the surface and the highest elevation a monorail reaches is almost similar.
All drivers need to stop trains at the precise mark at the end of the platform and unless the perfect point is reached, the drivers won’t open the doors. Some stations, though, have double-door system — an automatic door on the station — for enhanced security.
It would be biased to say that there’s no rush boarding — often you see people jumping through the closing doors. It is the duty of the driver or co-driver to keep an eye on that. At their own discretion, they can hold the door from closing if they see a frantic passenger running in. Even if they miss, the sensors won’t. To support the driver, there are multiple assistants at most stations, who keep on announcing about the arrivals and departures and also communicate with the drivers using hand signals.
The security system also has multiple layers. There are layers of human and technological expertise working in cohesion to prevent accidents. While Japan is more famous for its bullet trains, the role the local metros play is often undermined. They are the easiest, fastest and cheapest mode of transport. Add ‘secured’ to this, and you get a perfect first-world service. Tokyo’s metro and subway line carry almost 20 million passengers a day.
(Roy is a former Kolkata photojournalist now based in Tokyo)