The Central Railway (CR) is set to implement a new timetable from October 5, aimed at improving service efficiency and reducing congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). This change focuses on better serving commuters in Central Mumbai through strategic adjustments to train routes and schedules.
Key Changes in the New Timetable
- Relocation of Fast Train Services:
- 22 fast train services moved from CSMT to Dadar station
- These trains will now operate from Platform 11 at Dadar
- Increased Slow Line Services:
- 24 new train services on the slow line from Dadar to Parel
- Enhanced Parel Station Services:
- Total services to/from Parel increased to 46
- New Stops for Fast Trains:
- At least four fast train services will now stop at Kalwa and Mumbra
- Two services during morning peak hours and two during evening peak hours
- Introduction of Short-Shuttle Services:
- Nine services planned between Thane-Kalyan and Thane-Kurla
- AC Train Services:
- Conversion of a non-AC train to AC local between Kurla and Kalyan
- Plans to add two new AC rakes to the current fleet of six
Revised Main Line Time Table from tonight. w.e.f 05.10.2024.
— Central Railway (@Central_Railway) October 4, 2024
The New Suburban Time Table for Main Line (with revised details) will be available at https://t.co/6Pc31fzw6j
follow the link Timetable/Mumbai Suburban
Please note the changes..#CentralRailway #RailwayUpdates pic.twitter.com/LGQyV9tJsS
Benefits for Commuters
- Improved service for Central Mumbai areas (Dadar, Lower Parel, Prabhadevi, Worli, Parel)
- Increased options for passengers traveling to/from Parel
- Better connectivity for Kalwa and Mumbra residents
- Potential for less crowded trains during peak hours
Commuter Reactions
While many commuters welcome the changes, some express concerns:
“We are glad that our suggestions to focus on Central Mumbai and halts for fast trains at Kalwa and Mumbra have been accepted by the rail authorities,” said Madhu Kotian, president of the Mumbai Rail Pravasi Sangh.
However, Lata Argade, a member of a railway passenger association, noted, “This will partially help commuters. However, those travelling beyond Kalyan will not benefit as they will not alight at Kalyan to take less crowded trains.”
Revised Main Line Time Table from tonight. w.e.f 05.10.2024.
— Central Railway (@Central_Railway) October 4, 2024
The New Suburban Time Table for Main Line (with revised details) will be available at https://t.co/6Pc31fyYgL
follow the link Timetable/Mumbai Suburban
Please note the changes.. pic.twitter.com/h2YIuiCpJ4
Looking Ahead
The CR aims to further enhance its AC train services, with plans to increase the current 66 daily services. Recent data shows a significant increase in AC train ridership, with an average of 76,477 commuters from April to August 2024, up from 57,214 during the same period in 2023-24.
Summary (60 words): Central Railway introduces a new timetable from October 5, relocating 22 fast train services to Dadar, adding 24 slow line services, and introducing short-shuttle routes. The changes aim to improve service for Central Mumbai commuters and reduce CSMT congestion. New stops at Kalwa and Mumbra, along with planned AC train expansions, seek to enhance overall commuter experience.
List of Major Changes:
- Relocation of 22 fast train services from CSMT to Dadar (Platform 11)
- Addition of 24 new slow line services from Dadar to Parel
- Increase in total services to/from Parel to 46
- Introduction of at least four fast train services stopping at Kalwa and Mumbra
- Implementation of nine short-shuttle services between Thane-Kalyan and Thane-Kurla
- Conversion of a non-AC train to AC local between Kurla and Kalyan
- Plans to add two new AC rakes to the existing fleet
- Extension of halts for some train services beyond Kalyan
- Overall focus on improving services for Central Mumbai areas
