Starting August 27, the Western Railway will implement a 35-day mega block affecting local train services between Goregaon and Kandivali stations. This initiative aims to construct a 4.5-kilometre sixth line to enhance train capacity and reduce congestion. The work is scheduled to take place over five weekends, with each block lasting 10 hours.
Impact on Train Services
During this period, commuters can expect significant disruptions. Approximately 100-140 suburban services will be canceled each weekend, and around 40 services will be short-terminated. Long-distance trains may also experience delays of 15 to 20 minutes due to the construction activities. To minimize weekday disruptions, most of the work will be conducted during night hours.
Special Considerations for Ganpati Festival
Notably, no construction work will occur from September 11 to 17 in observance of the Ganpati festival, as confirmed by Western Railway General Manager Ashok Kumar Misra. This break aims to accommodate the increased travel demand during the festive period.
Construction Details
The new sixth line is being constructed on the west side of Malad station, as there is no available space on the east side. The existing five lines will be shifted west through a cut-and-connection process to facilitate the new construction. Once completed, the sixth line will extend to Borivali, creating a dedicated corridor for long-distance trains.
Enhancing Commuter Experience
These infrastructure improvements are expected to significantly enhance train capacity and punctuality for commuters. The project aligns with Western Railway’s ongoing efforts to modernize and expand its services, ultimately benefiting daily passengers and long-distance travelers alike.
Conclusion
As the Western Railway embarks on this extensive maintenance project, commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly. The mega block represents a crucial step towards improving Mumbai’s local train infrastructure, ensuring a more efficient and reliable service in the future.
