In the aftermath of the Mumbra train tragedy, Central Railway has decided to fast-track its plan to increase the number of 15-car local trains in Mumbai. This long-delayed move aims to ease the rising commuter burden on the Central line, which experiences some of the highest daily passenger traffic in the city. This move follows the tragic train accident near Mumbra, where 13 passengers fell off an overcrowded train due to heavy rush and lack of space, leaving four dead and nine others injured.
Central Railway Revives Long-Stalled 15-Car Local Train Expansion
Central Railway has revived its 2017 proposal to convert more 12-car services to 15-car ones across Mumbai’s suburban network. As reported by Hindustan Times, Central Railway currently operates only 22 services with 15-car rakes, while Western Railway runs over 200. The plan was previously shelved due to infrastructure limitations, including a lack of extended platforms, signalling issues, and insufficient stabling facilities.
Following the recent public outcry, Central Railway has prioritised platform upgrades and is preparing to launch semi-fast 15-car services. These services are expected to run from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Thane on the fast corridor, and then switch to slow lines, thus reaching under-served stations like Kalwa, Mumbra, Diva, and Kopar.
Infrastructure Improvements Underway To Support Rollout
To make room for the extended rakes, Central Railway has begun extending Platforms 5 and 6 at CSMT. Phase one of the expansion will cover the Karjat line, including Ambernath and Badlapur. Phase two will focus on the Kasara line, covering stations like Titwala and Asangaon. According to railway officials, each 15-car train can accommodate 25% more passengers than its 12-car counterpart, offering much-needed relief during peak hours.
Central Railway is also working to resolve operational constraints such as train maintenance schedules and yard availability. The authorities are coordinating with the Railway Board to ensure faster approvals and sufficient funding.
Focus Shifts To Passenger Safety And Service Efficiency
The tragic Mumbra incident has brought an urgent need to improve crowd management and passenger safety. According to a report by Hindustan Times, a detailed inquiry into the accident is underway and expected to conclude within 10 days. Meanwhile, Central Railway’s accelerated push to expand 15-car local trains in Mumbai aims to prevent such tragedies and offer a safer, more efficient commute for lakhs of daily passengers.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons/A.Savin