“Mumbai, a vibrant and energetic metropolis, boasts several crucial safety measures that require attention. These guidelines act as a beneficial travel companion and a convenient point of reference during your exploration of the city. By adhering to these preventive measures, you can guarantee utmost pleasure while ensuring your safety and evading any potential hazards. As you commence your journey, I suggest adhering to the following list of recommendations, which stem from my extensive familiarity with Mumbai. Welcome to the city, and allow me to offer you valuable insights on optimizing your experience while prioritizing your safety….”
Travel Precautions Dangers and Warnings
While in Local Trains Of Mumbai
Local train travel in Mumbai, which is the most affordable and quickest mode of transportation, comes with its own set of precautions and risks. Despite the presence of warning signs both inside and outside train compartments, it is the local commuters who often become victims due to their negligence in following safety instructions and rules, and not taking adequate precautions.
It is extremely dangerous to stand on the footboard. In Mumbai, the trains do not have closed doors, so during busy times, people can be seen hanging on with just a few fingers or on one leg. It is a sad and painful sight to witness. Unfortunately, people often fall from the trains because of this. Even the ladies compartments are not exempt from this, as you can see ladies with their belongings almost hanging out of the trains. Therefore, it is highly recommended for tourists and newcomers to the local trains to travel during non-peak hours, between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
During busy hours, it is important to wear shoes instead of slippers or casual footwear. This will help prevent your foot from getting crushed and ensure that your footwear does not slip off and end up on the other side of the compartment.
During the summer or any other time, it is important to carry enough drinking water when you travel on these trains. You can find packed water bottles at food stalls on the railway platforms, although there is no guarantee that they are distilled. It is recommended to trust brands like Bisleri and Aqua for their purity. The summer season is particularly challenging, as overcrowding can lead to people becoming unconscious due to the heat and lack of ventilation in the compartments.
Pickpockets are another danger on crowded trains. To be cautious, keep your wallet and other jewelry in a secure bag and place it in front of you while standing. Money visible in open upper pockets of shirts are easy targets for these skilled pickpockets, known as “Chor” in Hindi.
Stay vigilant about the luggage around you. The 2006 serial train blast was a prime example of the highest level of danger that can occur. Warnings and announcements are made inside the train regarding this. The watchful eyes of thousands of commuters are much more helpful in ensuring safety compared to the few police officers responsible for the security of travelers.
It may seem amusing, but this actually occurs on Mumbai local trains, and there are numerous victims who have tragically lost their lives. It is extremely dangerous to travel on the roof of any local train, as the high voltage of 25,000 to 40,000 volts has resulted in people being severely burned, leaving their bodies resembling charcoal. There are videos on YouTube that serve as evidence of these incidents.
Please note that the purpose of highlighting these points is solely to provide warnings and raise awareness about the dangers of local trains. It is important to understand these precautions in order to ensure your safety. However, if the train is less crowded or during non-peak hours, holidays, and similar times, you can still enjoy your journey without any issues.
Few References : Mumbai Local Timetable, About Local Trains.
Precautions When On Bus Taxi and Auto
Other options besides local trains in Mumbai are buses, auto rickshaws, and taxis. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings and don’t forget them, as it can be difficult to retrieve them. Some people are fortunate enough to have kind-hearted individuals in Mumbai who drive taxis and auto rickshaws and return lost items if possible. You can learn more about how to retrieve lost items from taxis by reading the Lost + Found article for taxi. If you happen to forget something on a local bus, the BEST Bus Lost + Found service might be able to help. Also, be cautious with your mobile phones and jewelry, as there are thieves who may try to snatch them in crowded areas and at traffic signals.
Eating out and Drinking Water Dangers
Let’s begin with drinking water. It’s not safe to drink water from open taps, even if they are working, according to various NGOs and government organizations. It’s better to carry filtered water from home or buy a bottled one. Eating out in Mumbai can be enjoyable if you have a strong immune system like a local, who can handle street food as well as food from restaurants and five-star hotels in their daily rush to and from work. If you’re not used to it, a good rule of thumb is to eat packed food or only eat when it’s served hot. Whether it’s the famous Vada pav, Samosa, or Idli Sambhar/Dal vada, it’s safer to opt for hygienic locations. Just remember that any open food can be risky, so it’s best to go for packed or hot served food as a precaution.
Road Safety Precautionery tips and Warnings
Mumbai is considered safe for women travelers compared to other cities, but there have been instances of rape and murder. Be cautious, avoid traveling alone at night, and stay away from isolated areas. Keep women helpline numbers handy and use safety apps like FIR for Android and iPhones. In case of emergency, dial 100. There are Police helplines and a Whatsapp group for women traveling on local trains that can provide assistance.
It is crucial to prioritize road safety in Mumbai due to the high risks involved in driving. Reckless driving, drunk driving, and accidents are common, leading to strict rules being enforced. Show your support to the city traffic police and ensure a safe journey back home or to your accommodations. Check out these resources for more information on Road Signs, Traffic Rules, Penalties and other related topics. Remember to follow road safety guidelines, Parking rules, and travel securely.
Few articles that will help you travel like a pro and understanding Mumbai better are Information about currency notes and coins, Common slangs, Tourist attractions.
DO and DON’T in Mumbai
DO when in City
Remember to carry small change when traveling. Having coins of Rs.1, Rs.2, 5, and 10 will make a big difference. If you only have Rs.100 and Rs.500 notes, it can be difficult to get the exact change back. You might end up spending unnecessarily on products just to get change, which can be a bit of a hassle.
Do Visit Places: Famous Temples, Mosques and Churches like Siddhivinayak, Mahalaxmi, Mumbadevi, Babulnath, Haji Ali, Mount Mary and its yearly fair should be on your DO VISIT LIST when in Mumbai. Other places to see (Tourist location) is at the link above i just mentioned. See also list of beaches, Adventure Options, Picnic Spots, Attractions, Parks and Gardens OR (Refer Complete City Guide)
DO Eat these: If you are in Mumbai for a day or more, few things you should eat which makes Mumbai talk about in news articles etc are famous street side Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji (Visit Juhu Chowpatty or Girgaum Chowpatty beach for same) or other famous food joints in city called ‘Khau Galli’ (MUST SEE VIDEOS ON SIDE PANEL). You should definitely try pani puri and sev puri, and don’t forget to try Dabeli and Chinese bhel/bhajiyas too! Haha, I understand that you might not be familiar with them, but it’s okay to try them for a day as they are not that unsafe. Check out the Food and Cuisines of City section on this website: Food and Cuisines of City.
DO Ride these: To truly experience the vibrant city of Mumbai, there’s nothing quite like taking a road ride to witness the bustling street life and markets. I highly recommend trying a bus ride, whether it’s an AC or non-AC bus, especially on Sundays or before 6:00 PM. Although it may be a bit uncomfortable to take a longer route, it’s worth it to truly understand and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Mumbai. The best routes in the western suburbs are Bus No. 202, 203, 204, and a few more that run from Mahim and Bandra to Borivali and Dahisar. These routes are special because they pass through SV Road, the main road that covers major suburbs, markets, and street joints, giving you an authentic feel of Mumbai. You can find all the Mumbai Bus Routes on the Mumbai Bus Routes website. While I emphasize the bus ride, you can also opt for an auto-rickshaw or a cool cab, but they may be more expensive.
Next on the must DO ride list should be Bandra Worli Sea Link, via a bus or a cab anything but just ride and feel it during late sunset hours. Another TO DO ride is the ferry from Gateway of India. Metro train ride should also be on the DO list of yours. Oh have i missed on kids with you ? Here are few rides for them Vanrani Toy Train, Matheran Toy Trains, Essel World Rides (Closed Permanently), H2O water sports rides at Chowpatty.
Do Keep Handy: Helpline numbers for safety, Station Names, Map (See Left Side Panel), Movie Timetable for entertainment.
List Of DON’T in Mumbai City
1. Avoid spitting or littering in public areas to maintain cleanliness in Mumbai.
2. Always follow traffic rules and refrain from drinking while driving.
3. Be cautious of crowded trains during peak hours to ensure safety.
4. Stay vigilant and avoid falling prey to scams in Mumbai; seek help from authorities if needed.
5. Refrain from using or seeking drugs in the city as they are strictly prohibited.
6. Drive carefully, especially during monsoon season, and watch out for pedestrians and potholes.
7. Avoid getting into altercations with troublemakers on the streets to stay safe.
8. Keep speed bikes off Mumbai roads for everyone’s safety.
9. Carry identification with you at all times to avoid any issues with authorities.
10. Be mindful of what you share on social media about Mumbai to maintain peace and harmony in the city.
11. While Mumbai residents are generally helpful, be aware of cultural differences and avoid engaging in activities that may be perceived negatively.
Hey, Do let me know your thoughts and help share with other. Enjoy Mumbai.
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