Mumbai: Central Railway (CR) has announced the cancellation of 930 local trains from Friday to Sunday, prompting a major logistical effort to mitigate commuter disruption. CR has formally requested additional bus services from BEST in Mumbai and TMT in Thane during this period.
In an appeal to transport union leaders, CR has urged for the maximum deployment of autos and taxis, particularly in the vicinity of railway stations. Additionally, CR has requested Western Railway to avoid scheduling a megablock over the weekend and to operate as many services as possible to ensure alternative travel options between the suburbs and the island city. “We have also asked traffic police to increase personnel deployment as the anticipated surge in car usage might lead to road congestion,” stated CR officials. To further ease the commuter strain, CR will seek additional bus services from MSRTC, specifically targeting routes up to Kalyan and beyond.
The disruptions are primarily due to significant construction projects in Thane and at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). In Thane, work will be conducted on the Kalyan-bound fast line and the CSMT-bound slow line. The CSMT project aims to extend platforms 10 and 11 to accommodate 24-coach long-distance trains, which currently only fit 18-coach trains. At Thane, platform 5 will be widened to better manage fast locals and mail/express trains.
“Typically, such construction, including platform walls and flooring, would take about six months. To minimise train schedule disruptions, we have planned a continuous, short-duration block of 63 hours,” explained a CR officer. The construction will utilise advanced technology and methods, such as modular platform construction techniques with pre-cast blocks. “This method will be a first for Indian Railways,” the officer added. The project also involves relocating rails, overhead wires, and other equipment to create the necessary space for platform extensions. Furthermore, CR will utilise this period to upgrade from mechanical to electronic interlocking systems. “We have completed all major civil and overhead equipment (OHE) upgrades; only the signalling upgrades remain,” a CR officer noted.
These comprehensive upgrades are expected to enhance the operational efficiency and capacity of the railway network, significantly benefiting long-term commuter convenience despite the short-term disruptions. The rapid construction methodology reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to modernising infrastructure with minimal impact on daily operations.
