Indian Railways – First “Ladies Special” Suburban Train Which Indian Railway zone is credited with starting India’s first dedicated “Ladies Special” suburban train service for women commuters?

Introduction / Context:
Urban rail systems in India have pioneered several commuter-friendly innovations. A prominent initiative was the introduction of “Ladies Special” services, offering dedicated suburban trains for women during peak hours.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question targets the railway zone responsible for the first such service.
• Options include major zones with large suburban networks.
• We refer to the earliest implementation historically credited in exam material.

Concept / Approach:
Mumbai’s intense suburban network under the Western Railway zone is closely associated with the first “Ladies Special” service. This initiative recognized the need for safer, more comfortable commuting options for women in crowded peak periods.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Conventional GK sources and railway histories link the earliest “Ladies Special” to Western Railway’s Mumbai suburban division, later emulated by other zones/cities.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Southern / Eastern / Northern: These zones operate major systems, but the earliest credited start is not typically attributed to them in legacy exam answers.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming the largest capital-city network (for example, Delhi) launched it first; historically, Mumbai’s Western Railway led this initiative.

Final Answer:
Western