Mumbai’s Central Railway (CR) has implemented a significant enhancement on its Harbour line by increasing the maximum operating speed from 80kmph to 95kmph between Tilak Nagar and Panvel. This strategic move, effective from Tuesday as per a June 3 notification, aims to streamline travel times, potentially reducing the journey duration by up to 5 minutes and bolstering service punctuality across the route.
CR currently operates 188 services between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Panvel, with an additional 79 services connecting CSMT to Belapur. While the journey typically takes 80 minutes from CSMT to Panvel and 65 minutes to Belapur, the speed enhancement is expected to optimize these commute durations, enhancing overall commuter convenience. Initially proposed at 105kmph, the approved speed limit of 95kmph ensures a balance between efficiency gains and safety considerations. According to Swapnil Nila, CR’s chief Public Relations Officer, “The revised speed limits have been meticulously rolled out to align with stringent safety protocols and operational standards.”
Track strengthening and necessary adjustments to the Overhead Equipment have been concurrently undertaken to support the increased operational speed. However, the speed enhancement is restricted to the Tilak Nagar-Panvel section due to operational constraints and safety precautions. The proximity of stations along the CSMT-Tilak Nagar stretch necessitates frequent speed adjustments, limiting the feasibility of higher speeds in that segment. Residents and commuters have welcomed the initiative while suggesting further improvements, such as fencing vulnerable stretches to prevent trespassing and addressing level crossing challenges along critical stretches like Chunabhatti-Kurla-Tilak Nagar. Rajesh Naik, a resident of Panvel, emphasized the potential for increased train frequencies to better utilize the time saved through faster journeys.
As Mumbai’s infrastructure evolves to meet growing commuter demands, CR’s efforts to optimize rail travel on the Harbour line underscore ongoing commitments to efficiency and passenger satisfaction. The ongoing enhancements reflect CR’s proactive approach to modernizing rail infrastructure, even as challenges like urban encroachments and operational complexities persist along key routes.
