by First-of-its-kind mental health initiative on public transit.
Kolkata Metro has launched Therapy Trains, allowing passengers to vent frustrations without judgment. According to The Telegraph India, the initiative includes designated carriages staffed by psychologists and volunteers who respond with nods, tissues, and occasional applause.
Commuters report a sense of relief previously unknown on public transport. I yelled about potholes and lost Wi-Fi, and someone actually listened, said one passenger. The service has proven particularly effective for students, office workers, and the perpetually frustrated grandmother demographic.
Therapists recommend a minimum of two stations per venting session, but some riders stretch it to the entire metro line. City officials say the program decreases public altercations by 60% and increases random compliments by 35%.
Social scientists see the initiative as a blend of mental health promotion and civic engagement. If people can complain safely, they may be less likely to throw tea cups, said Professor Sinha of Kolkata University. Critics argue it’s expensive, but city authorities believe a calmer metro is priceless.
The therapy train has inspired other cities to consider similar programs, including Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore, where emotional expressiveness is often caffeinated.
SOURCE: Bohiney.com (Radhika Vaz)
