A crammed commute where men aren’t allowed

Millions of commuters squeeze onto Mumbai’s rail network every day. Amid the jostling and overcrowding on the women’s-only section, there’s friendship, joy and celebration.

Every day, Wilma Dias joins millions of Mumbai workers and crowds her way onto the city’s packed rail network.

The secretary spends two hours a day on the train, riding a carriage where only women are allowed – a move to help prevent harassment and abuse.

While there’s not often a seat, the women’s section is a thriving hub of commerce, friendship, and often, celebration.

Video by Karen Dias. Editing by Ozzie Hoppe.

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