Western Railway’s Mumbai Central Division stepped up crowd management and passenger facilitation measures at key stations during Ganpati Visarjan on September 25 and 26, as passenger movement increased sharply across South Mumbai. Scroll down to know more.
Mumbai’s Charni Road Records The Highest Footfall During Ganpati Visarjan
Charni Road recorded the highest footfall during the period, with around 4–5 lakh passengers using the station amid the festival rush. To manage the crowds, Western Railway increased ticketing capacity, deployed additional staff and strengthened security and passenger assistance arrangements. At Charni Road, two additional ticket windows were opened, and three automatic ticket vending machines (ATVMs) were deployed. Four mobile ticketing units were also operated to help passengers purchase tickets faster.
According to reports by Midday, the booking office was supported by eight additional booking staff and three ATVM facilitators. Two ATVMs from Platform No. 1 on the north side were also operated at the Bal Bhavan entry gate, allowing passengers to buy tickets before entering the station.
Additional booking counters were set up at different locations to distribute passenger demand. Two counters were operated at the North foot overbridge during the evening and night shifts on September 25 and the morning shift on September 26. One counter each was also operated at the East Porta Cabin and the west side during specified shifts.
Security Was Deployed To Regulate Crowd
Crowd regulation and ticket checking were strengthened, with around 40 ticket-checking staff deployed at Charni Road. Security arrangements included 300 Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel and 200 Government Railway Police (GRP) personnel. The personnel were deployed to regulate crowds, maintain security and manage passenger movement during peak periods.
A medical desk and passenger helpdesk were also established at Charni Road. Railway and security personnel assisted commuters with directions to platforms and exits. Regular announcements and portable speakers were used to guide passengers and communicate information about passenger movement. Details of additional local train services were also shared through social media.
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Western Railway also closely monitored Grant Road and Marine Lines stations as part of its wider arrangements for Ganpati Visarjan. The measures across the three stations included additional ticketing facilities, extra staff, security deployment, passenger assistance and regular announcements. Western Railway said the arrangements were aimed at managing the increased passenger movement, reducing congestion and facilitating the safe movement of commuters during the festival period.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
FAQs
What does Ganpati Visarjan means?
Ganpati Visarjan marks the emotional final day of the 10-day Ganesh Utsav, where devotees bid farewell to Lord Ganesha and immerse his idol in water bodies.