Mumbai Local Train Services Affected This Sunday Due to Western Railway’s Jumbo Block
In a significant update for Mumbai’s local train commuters, Western Railway has announced a four-hour jumbo block scheduled for Sunday, February 2, between Jogeshwari and Kandivali stations. The block will be conducted on the 5th line from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM to facilitate crucial track maintenance, along with work on overhead equipment and signal systems.
For the millions who rely on Mumbai’s suburban railway network, even brief disruptions can lead to ripple effects. The jumbo block is expected to cause cancellations of some suburban services and alterations to the schedules of long-distance trains. According to Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, during the block, all Mail/Express trains originating from Bandra Terminus will be diverted to run on the Down Fast Line between Andheri and Borivali. Consequently, these trains will be handled at Platform No. 6 at Borivali station instead of their usual platforms.
Impact on Train Services
Suburban Services: Some local train services will be cancelled during the block hours. Commuters are advised to check with station masters for detailed information on the affected services.
Express Trains: Long-distance trains will run on alternative tracks, potentially causing minor delays.
Crowding Concerns: With limited services during peak weekend hours, increased crowding is expected on both suburban and long-distance trains.
Regular commuters have expressed mixed feelings about the announcement. A marketing professional from Borivali, shared, “Sunday is the only day I can run errands without the weekday rush. Now, I’ll have to plan around the cancellations. I just hope the authorities manage the crowd efficiently.” While many understand the necessity of such maintenance work, the lack of alternative arrangements often adds to the inconvenience. In related infrastructure news, Western Railway has also completed Phase-I of rebuilding Bridge No. 20 between Mahim and Bandra stations. This bridge, which spans the Mithi River, underwent major structural work, including the installation of four massive RH girders, each weighing 42 tonnes. The challenging task required 9-hour 30-minute blocks on two consecutive nights, with heavy machinery like 700-tonne cranes, excavators, and hydra lifts deployed.
Due to limited site access, the team had to use trucks and other equipment directly on the tracks—a testament to the complex logistics involved in Mumbai’s urban railway projects. While infrastructure upgrades are essential to maintain the safety and efficiency of Mumbai’s overburdened rail network, the impact on daily commuters cannot be overlooked. With over 7.5 million people relying on local trains every day, authorities must prioritise timely communication, crowd management, and explore alternative transport arrangements during such planned disruptions. Commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly this Sunday, stay updated via official railway announcements, and, if possible, avoid non-essential travel during the block hours.
