Persistent Delays Impact Daily Commutes

For the past few days, commuters using the Central Railway's suburban trains have been experiencing delays of 20 to 25 minutes due to various technical issues. This has caused significant frustration among passengers, particularly those commuting to work, as they struggle to reach their workplaces on time.

Impact on the Workforce

The delays have directly impacted the daily schedules of many employees traveling from areas like Kasara, Titwala, and Asangaon to Mumbai and Thane. These workers, who prefer the rail route over the more expensive and time-consuming road options, are finding it increasingly difficult to manage their routines. The repeated delays are causing them to question when the railway traffic will finally be back on track.

Overcrowded Trains and Inadequate Service

The number of train trips on the Karjat-Kasara lines is insufficient compared to the high volume of passengers. This has led to overcrowding at key railway stations, making it challenging for commuters to board both fast and slow trains. The preference for rail travel is clear, but the current service levels are failing to meet the demand.

Priority Given to Long-Distance Trains

One of the main reasons for the delays is the prioritization of long-distance express and goods trains over suburban trains. These long-distance services, heading towards Pune from the Kasara line and Nashik and Karjat lines, often cause suburban trains to run late. As a result, commuters are frequently late getting home at night and arriving at work in the morning.

Calls for Improved Scheduling

The ongoing delays have prompted many employees to adjust their work timings in an attempt to cope. However, the disruption to their daily lives remains significant. Passengers are now calling for better scheduling and more frequent train services to alleviate the chronic delays and improve the overall efficiency of the suburban rail network.