In response to growing demand, Western Railway is set to introduce 13 additional AC local train services over the Mumbai Suburban section starting November 27, 2024. With this expansion, the total weekday AC services will increase to 109. These services aim to enhance passenger convenience and ease crowding during peak hours.
Details of New Services:
Overall Services:
- The total number of suburban services will remain at 1,406, including 109 AC local train services.
- On weekdays, AC services will increase from 96 to 109, and on weekends, from 52 to 65.
Operational Timings:
- The first new AC service will depart from Churchgate at 12:34 hrs on November 27, 2024. Subsequent services will follow the updated timetable.
Passenger Benefits:
Shri Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, emphasized that this move is aimed at meeting commuter demand and decongesting train services. Replacing existing non-AC 12-car services with AC services ensures enhanced comfort for passengers without altering the total count of local services.
Route-Specific Changes:
UP Direction (6 services):
- Virar to Churchgate: 2 services
- Bhayandar to Churchgate: 2 services
- Virar to Bandra: 1 service
- Bhayandar to Andheri: 1 service
DOWN Direction (7 services):
- Churchgate to Virar: 2 services
- Churchgate to Bhayandar: 1 service
- Andheri to Virar: 1 service
- Bandra to Bhayandar: 1 service
- Mahalaxmi to Borivali: 1 service
- Borivali to Bhayandar: 1 service
Conclusion:
Western Railway’s decision to introduce 13 new AC local train services reflects its commitment to enhancing commuter convenience and addressing crowding issues. With strategic scheduling across key routes, the initiative ensures efficient utilization of resources while catering to the growing preference for AC travel in Mumbai’s suburban network.
Source: Western Railway – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): Unsplash
