On Monday, the Shiv Sena (UBT) staged a protest at Bhayander station over the replacement of the 8:24 am non-AC local train with an AC local on the Bhayander-Churchgate route. Protesters launched a signature campaign and submitted a memorandum demanding the return of the non-AC service, calling the decision inconvenient for non-AC passengers.
Western Railway’s Defense
Western Railway officials dismissed the protest as politically motivated. They stated that the decision to replace non-AC services with AC locals was based on passenger demand.
One official explained that the AC local departing Virar and reaching Bhayander at 8:21 am was frequently overcrowded, requiring security personnel to manage door closures. This caused delays in peak-hour services. The addition of an AC local at 8:24 am was aimed at resolving these issues, with the train now operating at full capacity.
Criticism of the New Timetable
Passenger representative Shailesh Goyal criticized the new timetable, claiming it disrupted travel for non-AC passengers. He highlighted instances where multiple AC locals ran in quick succession, leaving non-AC commuters stranded. Goyal urged Western Railway to consult passenger representatives and adjust the schedule to balance the needs of all travelers.
AC Local Fare Affordability
Western Railway officials emphasized the affordability of AC local fares. At 84 paise per kilometre, the fare is comparable to the season ticket fare for non-AC BEST buses and 26% cheaper than BEST AC buses, which charge Rs 1.13 per kilometre.
Balancing Commuter Needs
While Western Railway defends the addition of AC locals to meet growing demand, concerns about the convenience of non-AC passengers remain. The ongoing discussions between passengers and railway authorities could lead to a more inclusive timetable that caters to all commuters.
