5 feared dead as passengers fall off overcrowded train in India’s Mumbai

At least 10 to 12 passengers reportedly fell off the train travelling towards Thane's Kasara area from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus

Five passengers are feared dead after falling onto the track from an overcrowded commuter train in India's Mumbai.

At least 10 to 12 passengers reportedly tumbled off the train as it made its way to Thane's Kasara from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus on Monday, reports Indian broadcaster NDTV.

The incident occurred near the Mumbra Station in Thane district, police said.

According to Indian Railways, a huge crowd inside the train caused the passengers to fall off a compartment. The overcrowded conditions reportedly forced many passengers to hang from the train’s doors, leading to the fall.

Railway officials later visited the scene and the injured were taken to the nearest hospital. An investigation into the incident is underway.

Following the incident, railway authorities decided that all rakes being manufactured for the Mumbai Suburban system will be equipped with automatic door-closing facilities. In addition, all rakes in service will be retrofitted with similar features.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis express his sorrow over the incident, calling it "very unfortunate".

"The injured were immediately admitted to Shivaji Hospital and Thane General Hospital and are undergoing treatment. The local administration is coordinating. I pray to God that the injured get quick relief. The Railway Department has started investigating the real causes of this incident," he said in a statement.