Mumbai: Commuters at Bhayander station voiced their frustration on Monday morning after Western Railway replaced the 8:24 AM Bhayander-Churchgate regular local train with an air-conditioned (AC) service. The move has sparked widespread protests among passengers, particularly those relying on affordable non-AC services.
Situation of Dombivali AC Local shot by me from Mulund. This is the condition of AC trains. Imagine the situation in Non AC. More than 50% commuters without AC ticket. People not even allowing doors to be shut properly which is worsening the delay! @Central_Railway pic.twitter.com/vMKcSNAuAu
— Mumbai Nowcast (@s_r_khandelwal) October 8, 2024
Commuters Demand Reversal of Decision
The 8:24 AM Bhayander-Churchgate local, a vital service for office-goers aiming to reach Churchgate by 10:00 AM, was heavily patronized due to its affordability and convenience. Its conversion to an AC service has disrupted the daily schedules of thousands.
“This decision is unfair. Regular commuters now have to skip this train, completely collapsing their travel plans,” said Prakash Almora, a daily commuter. Another commuter, Ganesh Prasad Pandey, expressed concerns about affordability: “How will a poor man afford an AC pass costing ₹2,600 when the regular pass is just ₹200? This change is a burden for us.”
Increased AC Services Across Mumbai Suburban Network
Western Railway recently increased AC local train services across Mumbai’s suburban network, adding 13 new AC services from last Wednesday. With this change, the total AC services now stand at 109 on weekdays, up from 96, and 65 on weekends, compared to the previous 52.
The transition involved converting several non-AC services into AC ones, which has upset many passengers who depend on the non-AC locals for economical travel.
Rising Frustration at Bhayander Station
Tempers flared as commuters gathered at the station manager’s cabin, demanding immediate reversal of the decision. They argued that the conversion disproportionately affects lower-income passengers and disrupts established travel routines.
Passengers criticized Western Railway for failing to consider their needs before implementing the changes. The lack of consultation with stakeholders has deepened resentment, with many questioning the inclusivity of the suburban railway system.
Broader Implications of the Move
The shift towards AC services reflects Western Railway’s efforts to modernize Mumbai’s suburban network. However, the backlash highlights the challenge of balancing modernization with affordability and accessibility. The move has sparked debates on whether the railway is prioritizing profit over the needs of its primary commuter base.
Calls for Action
Protesters at Bhayander station have urged authorities to either revert the changes or introduce additional non-AC services to accommodate daily commuters. With tensions simmering, Western Railway faces growing pressure to address these concerns and find a solution that caters to all segments of society.
As commuters await a response, the situation at Bhayander station underscores the need for inclusive planning in public transport initiatives, ensuring that no group of passengers is left behind.
Sidenote: This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
