Central Railway (CR) has expedited its long-standing plan to increase the number of 15-car trains. Currently, CR operates only 22 such trains, a stark contrast to Western Railway’s (WR) over 210. This disparity underscores the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades to enhance commuter safety and capacity.
To accommodate longer trains, CR has initiated the extension of platforms at key stations, including CSMT and Kalyan. These upgrades are essential to handle the increased length and ensure smooth operations. However, the process is complex and time-consuming, involving not only platform extensions but also adjustments to signaling systems and yard modifications. For instance, the Kalyan station requires significant remodeling to facilitate the smooth operation of 15-car trains. Despite these efforts, CR faces challenges such as limited space for further infrastructure expansion and the need to balance train speed with safety.
The introduction of 15-car trains may reduce train speeds slightly, but the increased capacity is deemed necessary to alleviate overcrowding. CR’s strategy involves a phased approach, starting with the Kalyan-Thane corridor, which has been identified as a high-density route. The plan includes the introduction of semi-fast services that will run quickly between CSMT and Thane, then switch to the slow corridor to better serve intermediate stations like Kalwa and Mumbra. This approach aims to balance speed and accessibility, ensuring that more commuters benefit from the expanded services.
Additionally, CR is exploring the possibility of introducing more 15-car services on the Kasara and Karjat routes. These areas have seen rapid urban development, leading to increased commuter traffic. By extending the 15-car train network to these regions, CR aims to provide better connectivity and reduce congestion on existing services. While CR is taking steps to enhance its services, WR has already made significant progress in expanding its 15-car train network. As of August 2023, WR operates 199 15-car services, with plans to convert 49 more services from 12-car to 15-car trains.
This expansion is expected to increase the carrying capacity of each train by 25%, accommodating an additional 1,500 commuters per train during peak hours. WR’s proactive approach serves as a model for CR as it works to upgrade its infrastructure and services. The Mumbra tragedy has served as a catalyst for change, prompting CR to accelerate its plans to increase the number of 15-car trains. While challenges remain, the commitment to enhancing commuter safety and capacity is evident. With continued investment in infrastructure and a strategic approach to service expansion, CR aims to create a more efficient and safer suburban rail network for Mumbai’s commuters.
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