The Mumbai metro authorities have recently expressed their concern for safety after a video of popular actor Varun Dhawan went viral. In the video, Dhawan can be seen hanging from the grab handles inside a coach, an act that is punishable under the rules.
The Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Ltd, in a post that has since been deleted, stated that the video should have come with a disclaimer, similar to the ones seen in action movies. The post was accompanied by the caption "Don't do this on Maha Mumbai Metro."
The metro operator further added that the video should have included a warning to not try such stunts on the metro, directly addressing Dhawan with his Twitter handle. However, Dhawan's team clarified that the post criticizing the 38-year-old actor was later taken down by the Mumbai metro authorities and no penalty was imposed on him.
The video in question features Dhawan doing pull-ups by holding onto the grab handles inside the metro coach, while a fellow passenger imitates him and others watch. It is still unclear when and where the video was filmed.
In their post, MMMOCL emphasized that the grab handles inside metro coaches are meant only for support and not for hanging, as it poses a safety risk to passengers and can also cause damage to public property. The operator also reminded commuters that such behaviour is punishable under the Metro Railways Act, 2002, with penalties and even imprisonment depending on the gravity of the offence.
They urged people to travel responsibly and follow safety norms while using the Maha Mumbai Metro, stating "So folks, hang out, but don't hang in there. Travel responsibly on Maha Mumbai Metro."
After facing backlash on social media, Dhawan's team released a statement clarifying that no fine or penalty was issued to him for doing pull-ups inside the metro train. They also mentioned their respect for the rules and the efforts of the metro department.
Several netizens have demanded action against the actor as per the rules, with some even claiming that a Rs 500 challan was issued to him for creating a nuisance. Responding to these posts, some users have suggested that the authorities should have taken stricter action instead of just issuing hollow threats.
MMMOCL operates metro services on Line 2A and Line 7, while construction of several other metro lines in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region is currently underway. The safety and well-being of passengers is a top priority for the metro operator, and they urge everyone to travel responsibly while using their services. This incident serves as a reminder to always follow safety protocols and respect public property.
