New Timetable Unveiled: Mumbai's Local Trains Shift 22 Fast Services to Dadar

Starting October 5, commuters in Mumbai will see significant changes in the local train schedule as the Central Railway (CR) implements a new timetable aimed at reducing congestion at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). In a strategic move, 22 fast train services will be relocated from CSMT to Dadar station, specifically operating from Platform 11. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance connectivity for those working in Central Mumbai's bustling business districts, including Dadar, Lower Parel, Prabhadevi, Worli, and Parel.

 Increased Services for Commuters

The shift to Dadar is designed to provide commuters with more fast train options, improving overall service frequency. In addition to the 22 fast services, 24 slow train services are being moved from Dadar to the newly upgraded Parel station, bringing the total number of services to 46. This strategic adjustment is anticipated to ease the pressure on CSMT and better accommodate the growing number of office-goers in the area.

 New Stops for Key Services

Among the noteworthy changes, at least four fast train services will now stop at Kalwa and Mumbra—two during morning peak hours and two in the evening. These trains will serve the Badlapur/Asangaon/Titwala-CSMT route, a decision welcomed by local transport advocates. Madhu Kotian, president of the Mumbai Rail Pravasi Sangh, expressed satisfaction with the rail authorities' responsiveness to their suggestions, emphasizing the importance of these additional stops for local commuters.

 Introduction of Short-Shuttle Services

The new timetable also highlights the introduction of short-shuttle services, with at least nine trains scheduled to operate between Thane-Kalyan and Thane-Kurla. This adjustment is expected to facilitate faster turnaround times, making it easier for commuters to avoid congestion, particularly during peak hours. However, some passengers, like Lata Argade from a railway passenger association, voiced concerns that those traveling beyond Kalyan might not benefit from these changes.

 Expansion of AC Train Services

In a further enhancement to local train facilities, CR plans to convert one non-AC train into an AC local service between Kurla and Kalyan. Authorities are also preparing to add two new AC rakes to their fleet of six existing AC trains, which currently operate 66 services daily. This upgrade aims to cater to the growing demand for comfortable travel options, as data from April to August 2024 shows an average of 76,477 commuters, a significant increase from the previous year's 57,214.

As these changes roll out, Central Railway aims to improve the commuting experience for Mumbai residents while addressing the pressing issue of train congestion in one of the city’s busiest transport corridors.