Mumbai’s suburban rail network will operate a series of early-morning special services on 23 November to support thousands of participants expected at the Indian Navy’s annual half marathon. Both Western Railway and Central Railway have announced additional trains to ensure seamless pre-dawn travel for runners heading towards South Mumbai, where the event will be staged as part of the Navy Day celebrations.
Western Railway confirmed that it will run an extra slow local from Virar to Churchgate, departing at 2:30 am and arriving at 4:12 am. The decision, according to officials, aims to offer reliable transport at an hour when regular suburban services are limited. The event typically attracts strong public participation, and authorities expect around 20,000 runners this year, spanning a mix of recreational athletes, defence personnel, and first-time participants. The Western Naval Command is hosting the eighth edition of its half marathon, which features three race categories. The 21-kilometre Aircraft Carrier Run will begin at 5:00 am, followed by the 10-kilometre Destroyer Run at 6:15 am and the 5-kilometre Frigate Run at 7:30 am. All routes pass through heritage corridors in South Mumbai and converge at Cross Maidan for the start and finish. Organisers said the marathon is designed to strengthen engagement between naval personnel and residents, while highlighting the importance of fitness and public space accessibility in dense urban environments.
Central Railway has also announced two early suburban specials on the same morning. One train will run from Kalyan to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), departing at 2:30 am and reaching by 4:00 am. Another will operate on the Harbour Line from Panvel to CSMT, leaving at 2:40 am and arriving at the same time. Both services will halt at all stations along their routes to ensure last-mile accessibility for participants travelling from outer suburbs. Urban mobility experts note that such special arrangements reflect an increasing recognition of inclusive transport planning, particularly during large civic or recreational events. Efficient public transport not only reduces congestion and emissions but also ensures that residents from diverse socio-economic backgrounds can participate in city-wide activities. “Reliable early-morning services encourage more people to adopt public transport, even for events scheduled outside regular hours,” an official familiar with transport coordination said.
The marathon is expected to bring temporary traffic diversions and heightened footfall in parts of South Mumbai. However, authorities emphasise that well-managed public transport options can minimise disruption. The prize distribution ceremony is scheduled for 8:15 am, following which regular city activity is likely to resume. As Mumbai continues to champion active mobility and equitable access to its public spaces, such coordinated efforts between civic agencies and transport networks highlight the city’s push towards more sustainable and community-oriented urban events.
Mumbai To Run Special Early Local Train For Navy Marathon On November 23
