2009 ~ Mumbai Trains: Local, Metro, Mono

Announcement at Seawoods station not making sense

9:15 AM Belapur-CST, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Seawoods, Vashi No comments

It's quite cold in Navi Mumbai today and a weird announcement hit our almost numb ears at Seawoods station in the morning. The announcer said something like - After the Belapur-CST train, a special train has left from Vashi to CST.

Whatever it meant, I presume it makes the trains less crowded. However, despite being a bank holiday, the train I boarded isn't less crowded at all.

Western line trains late today; not running from Malad platform 1

7:43 AM Goregaon, Malad, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

As per the latest news (28 December 2009), an overhead wire between Malad and Goregaon stations has broken resulting in western line trains running around 20 minutes late. Apparently, trains are not
running from Malad's platform number 1. Please let us know the status if you travel from Malad.

Thane Vashi latest timetable

10:48 PM Harbour Line, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane Vashi Trains, Thane-Vashi, Thane-Vashi Time Table No comments

Here's the all-new Thane-Vashi timetable effective from 21st December 2009:

Vashi-Thane train time table from 21 December 2009

10:12 AM Harbour Line, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Timetables, Vashi, Vashi-Thane No comments

As per the latest time table, trains leave from Vashi towards Thane at
the following timings:
5.35 am 5.50 am
6.05 am 6.20 am 6.48 am
7.03 am 7.19 am 7.34 am 7.48 am
8.13 am 8.30 am 8.48 am
9.05 am 9.23 am 9.40 am
10.02 am 10.17 am 10.32 am 10.55 am
11.15 am 11.42 am
12.10 pm 12.50 pm
1.25 pm 1.50 pm
2.20 pm 2.50 pm
3.10 pm 3.40 pm
4.00 pm 4.25 pm 4.40 pm 4.58 pm
5.12 pm 5.24 pm 5.38 pm 5.52 pm
6.15 pm 6.34 pm 6.50 pm
7.05 pm 7.25 pm 7.50 pm
8.07 pm 8.22 pm 8.45 pm
9.28 pm
10.00 pm 10.25 pm
11.10 pm

Here's the tabulated form as requested by one of the commuters:

Latest update:
New timetable has been introduced from February 2012: Thane Vashi Local Train Time Table 2012

Changes in Thane-Vashi-Thane train time table

9:45 AM Local train news, local trains, mumbai local, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane, Thane Vashi Trains, Thane-Vashi, Vashi No comments

Latest update:
New timetable has been introduced from February 2012: Thane Vashi Local Train Time Table 2012

Older post:

Dear commuters, last evening I noticed that there is quite some change in the Thane Vashi train time table. I need to doubly confirm the timings before updating on this site. Would suggest you keep a buffer of few minutes if you travel on this route for a couple of days.

Do let us know if you have any updates. Your contribution will help the fellow commuters. Have a nice day!

Vashi local timing changed

9:15 AM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane No comments

There used to be a 9.16 Vashi local to CST. Please note the timing of
the train today was 9.10. Looks like there are many changes in train
timings than what we know. Similarly, there have been drastic and not
very convenient changes in the timings of Thane Vashi up and down
trains. Give me a couple of days to confirm all the timings.

Panvel to Andheri local trains time table

5:52 PM andheri, Andheri Panvel Timetable, Harbour Line, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Panvel-Andheri 13 comments

On popular demand, here’s the updated Panvel-Andheri time table. Hope it helps the commuters!

Panvel 5:57 am - Andheri 07:32 am
Panvel 6:59 am - Andheri 08:31 am
Panvel 7:40 am - Andheri 09:09 am
Panvel 10:47 am - Andheri 12:16 pm
Panvel 04:33 pm - Andheri 06:06 pm
Panvel 05:01 pm - Andheri 06:30 pm
Panvel 05:29 pm - Andheri 07:02 pm
Panvel 06:31 pm - Andheri 08:06 pm
Panvel 07:30 pm - Andheri 09:03 pm

Super slow Kurla local of 9:22 am

9:58 AM Central Line, central railway, Kurla, Kurla Local, Kurla Station, Kurla-CST, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Parel 1 comment

It took me 45 minutes to reach Parel station after I boarded the Kurla local that leaves for CST at 9:22 am (21st Dec 2009). Worst was that while our train was stationary at Kurla's platform number 3, other trains kept arriving and moving ahead from platform number 4. We stayed in the train everytime thinking that at least now it will move. Too much optimism on a Monday morning I suppose.

Kurla 9:22 local to CST running late today

9:46 AM Central Line, central railway, Kurla, Kurla Local, Kurla Station, Kurla-CST, Local train news, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

And not just late, the train is moving super slow today (21st December 2009). Around 4 or more trains overtook this train as it stayed still on platform number 3 :(

Vashi 8:38 local arrived late - 21st December 2009

9:04 AM Harbour Line, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Trains Late, Vashi, Vashi Local, Vashi Station No comments

New harbour line services start today (21st December 2009). Obviously, trains were expected to be late. And do was the 8:38 Vashi local to CST. Result - unnecessary panic. I took a rickshaw from Koparkhairane to Vashi due to thesevere joint pain in the hands. Thought I would travel comfortably in the vashi local. But the train being late invited panic that was uncalled for.

Yet another seemingly harmless and educated female, donning a turquoise blue dupatta, made her way to a seat she aimed for. Of course, she pushed more females than you could ever
imagine. Result - she thrusted my hand on a rod increasing the severe pain in my right hand I am trying to survive with. Worst again, this 'educated' female refused to apologize and in fact lied that she did not push anyone at all. Everyone simply smiled at her white lie, and well what else could we do. The other option was to get engaged in an argument that would not improve anything.

Well, courtesy is passe, welcome to the indifferent era! Btw, this happened in the first class compartment supposedly occupied by the educated lot.

New Thane-Vashi local trains time table

2:19 PM Harbour Line, Local Train, Local train news, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane Local, Thane-Vashi Time Table, Vashi 6 comments

Latest update:
New timetable has been introduced from February 2012: Thane Vashi Local Train Time Table 2012

Older post:

5 new trains have been added on the Thane-Vashi route from 21st December 2009. Here's the update time table for trains leaving from Thane to Vashi:

06:10 am
06:30 am
06:55 am
07:10 am
07:30 am
07:50 am
08:10 am
08:25 am
08:40 am
09:00 am
09:20 am
09:35 am
09:50 am
10:20 am
10:40 am
10:55 am
11:10 am
11:30 am
12:00 pm
12:11 pm (new train from21stDecember 2009)
12:30 pm
01:05 pm
01:30 pm (new train from21stDecember 2009)
01:50 pm
02:30 pm
03:00 pm (new train from21stDecember 2009)
03:15 pm
03:50 pm
04:20 pm (new train from21stDecember 2009)
04:30 pm
05:00 pm
05:15 pm
05:35 pm
05:55 pm
06:15 pm
06:30 pm
06:50 pm
07:05 pm
07:30 pm
07:50 pm
08:10 pm
08:30 pm
08:45 pm
09:20 pm
09:30 pm
09:43 pm
10:10 pm
10:25 pm
10:35 pm
11:10 pm
11:45 pm (new train from21stDecember 2009)

Mumbai's harbour line new trains time table

12:44 PM Belapur-CST, CST, Harbour Line, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Panvel-CST, Panvel-Vadala, Timetables, Vashi, Vashi-Vadala 4 comments

Sunday morning couldn't have been better. My husband came across the ad about 50 additional local train services on the harbour line! Yes, new trains have been added on the Panvel-CST, Thane-Vashi and Nerul-Thane routes on either sides from 21st December 2009! Moreover, a few of the existing services are extended!

Here's the time table for new trains on the Panvel-Vashi-Vadala-CST route:

Panvel 06:40 am - CST 08:00 am
Belapur 9:15 am - CST 10:18 am
Belapur 11:55 am - CST 12:59 pm
Vashi 06:40 pm - Vadala 07:12 pm
Panvel 07:22 pm - Vadala 08:21 pm
Panvel 10:32 pm - CST 11:50 pm

Here's the time table for new trains on the CST-Vadala-Vashi-Belapur-Panvel route:

CST 08:04 am - Belapur 09:08 am
CST 10:14 am - Vashi 11:02 am
CST 10:30 am - Vashi 11:18 am
CST 12:57 pm - Panvel 02:14 pm
CST 05:21 pm - Belapur 06:25 pm
Vadala 07:27 pm - Panvel 08:29 pm
Vadala 08:30 pm - Panvel 09:32 pm
CST 11:55 pm - Vashi 12:42 pm

I have also updated the Nerul-Thane time table as from 21st December 2009 here.
And here's the updated Thane-Nerul Panvel time table.

Trains to panvel running late by over 15 mins today.

7:37 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel No comments

A panvel bound train has halted at kurla station and is stationary for
over 10 mins now. Damn, it is so crowded i cannot even alight. Btw the
train halted a bit ahead on the platform.
15 dec 2009

--
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Regards,
Anuradha Khanna Pentapalli

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Mumbai local train travelling tips: 1 - Say sorry to avoid fury

10:18 AM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train 2 comments

Location - Kurla station platform no. 4
Incident - A woman twice my weight elbows me badly while getting off
the train as I wait to board the train. She pauses for a while as I
scream with pain and then walks away casually. Worst, she does not
even say sorry, even after I say that she must at least apologize. Did
I call her bitch? Felt like but did not. Why? Coz she was at least 10
years elder to me and then bitches do not hurt anyone for no reason.
Tip: If you accidentally hurt someone, at least say sorry and show
concern. Unlike me, some victims will not let you go easily. Some
ladies even hit back.

--
Sent from my mobile device

Regards,
Anuradha Khanna Pentapalli

On Twitter - http://twitter.com/annucool15

Thane Karjat Kasara local train problem, trains running late

11:51 AM Karjat, Kasara, Local train news, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane, Trains Late No comments

Local train services in the Thane – Karjat / Kasara are affected as a contact line wire (overhead wire) of a local has broken near thane station. No wonder the trains were running late by around 15-20 minutes.
- As reported by Zee News on 3rd December 2009

Central line trains status today

9:28 AM Central Line, central railway, Local train news, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Trains Late No comments

Central main line trains are running 15 minutes late today - 3rd December 2009

Reading indicators at Mumbai local train platforms

4:58 PM Indicators, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Reading indicators, Vashi 24 comments

I remember the first time I travelled using Mumbai’s central / harbour railway line. I was completely confused whether BL means Belapur / Badlapur and I almost landed in the wrong train.

Recently, quiz-master Derek O’Brien traveled in Mumbai local trains to understand commuters’ grievances. One of the things he found most difficult was reading indicators at the platforms on stations. Obviously, for a first time traveler on a particular route, reading indicators is a tough task.

How on earth would you know that K is not Kurla, but C stands for Kurla!

Unless of course, your friends have told you what those abbreviations mean. I would request the railways to put up boards at every railway station / platform in Mumbai explaining the abbreviated forms of stations.

Until, I am heard, here’s my little attempt to help you out. So if you are finding difficulty understanding the indicators, keep the list below handy.

Reading indicators at Mumbai local train CENTRAL / HARBOUR LINE platforms made easy:

A – Ambernath

AD - Andheri

AN - Asangaon

BL - Badlapur

BR - Belapur

C – Kurla

ST – Chattrapati Shivaji Terminus

D - Dadar

DI – Dombivli

G - Ghatkopar

K – Kalyan

KP – Khopoli

N – Kasara

Pl - Panvel

Nu - Nerul

S – Karjat

T - Thane

Tl – Titwala

VA – Vashi

Vd - Wadala

Reading indicators at Mumbai local train WESTERN LINE platforms made easy:

A – Andheri

B – Bandra

C – Churchgate

Bo – Borivli

D - Dadar

G – Goregaon

M – Malad

V – Virar

BS - Vasai Road

BY – Bhayander

PS - Do let me know if anything above is incorrect / if something is missing.

Railway Emergency Number Really Helps

11:11 AM central railway, Kurla, Matunga, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Railway Emergency Number No comments

Last evening on my way back home, I took a Kurla local that left from Parel at 6:49 pm. I reached the station at the last minute and hence boarded the last second class ladies coach of the train. Fortunately, I got a place to sit as well.

But soon after the train crossed Matunga station, there was a loud thud near the door / window of the train (the east facing side). Obviously what followed was a little panic, but thankfully the women did not over react. Of course, then we all tried to find out if someone got hurt, did some miscreant throw a stone at the train etc. Thankfully, no one was hurt. No one could make out any sense, but obviously people got a bit scared. Also, the sound was too loud to resemble anything close to a stone hitting a compartment.

It made sense to inform the railway authorities about the incident. So I called up the Railway Emergency Number 222620800 that is provided in the compartments. It was not an IVR number and as always the official on the other side was very attentive.

He asked me the details when I requested him to check if some miscreants are throwing stones / if there is any other problem. I have no idea about what happened after that, but the way the official assured me that he will send someone to check the situation, I knew he will take care of it.

I thank and appreciate the official (I do not know his name) and the railway authorities for the help.

Andheri to Panvel train timetable

7:08 PM andheri, Andheri Panvel Timetable, Andheri to Panvel, Andheri-Panvel, Ladies Special Panvel, Local Train, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Timetables 27 comments

Listed below are the Andheri to Panvel local train timings. The local leaves from Andheri station at the following timings and it takes around 1:30 hours to reach Panvel station:

7:42 am

8:40 am

9:33 am

12:25 pm

6:16 pm

6:37 pm

7:09 pm

8:19 pm

9:11 pm

PS: The train takes a 3-8 minutes halt at Wadala / Vadala station and then moves in opposite direction, so don’t get worried if you find it weird.

Friday the 13th - 2 coaches of a local train derail at CST station

5:15 PM CST, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Accident, Train Derailment No comments

Local trains (Mumbai central line) were running late in the morning of 13th November 2009. But the commuters were unaware of the reason. This time, 2 coaches of a train from Kasara derailed at platform number 6 of CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus) station. The derailment happened at 7 in the morning obviously affecting the train services in the central line.

By the way, on 11th November too a train from Kalyan had derailed at CST. On November 4, 12 coaches of Gandhidham Bangalore Express from Ahmedabad to Bangalore derailed at Dombivli. What's wrong with the Railways? Or are these derailments sheer coincidences?

Extra local trains on November 11 - Cyclone Phyan in Mumbai

2:31 PM Local train news, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

As per NDTV report, railways will be running extra local trains from 2 pm considering the cyclone Phyan hitting Mumbai on November 11 2009.

Thane to Vashi trains running late

9:33 AM Koparkhairane, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane, Vashi 2 comments

Am waiting at Koparkhairane station for quite some time now but no train has arrived from Thane yet. Don't know the reason yet.

Accident on NCR railway tracks

10:55 AM Gandhidham Bangalore Express Accident, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, NCR Train Accident No comments

12 people, including a 2-year old child, lost their lives on NCR railway tracks in NCR on Tuesday, 3rd November 2009. Six people died while crossing the tracks while 6 gangmen were run over by a goods train barely 12 hours after the first incident. Read the Times of India report here.

3 Train-related accidents in India in one day, what’s with number 12 today?

10:20 AM Gandhidham Bangalore Express, Gandhidham Bangalore Express Accident, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, NCR Train Accident No comments

Few minutes ago, I wrote about the Gandhidham Bangalore Express derailment at Mumbai’s Dombivli. As many as 12 coaches of the train had derailed. And as I searched the internet for updates on the same, I came across this Times of India report of 12 people losing their lives on railway tracks in NCR in two incidents separated by 12 hours.

Of course, in the second case the people who were crossing the tracks did the wrong thing, but still the locals then beat up railway staffers (as if crossing tracks is allowed). True that I am not from that area so I don’t know if people have some other option to reach on the other side of the tracks. Am sure if the motormen could have stopped the train running at that speed, they would have done so.

I urge again – Please do not cross railway tracks.

Gandhidham Bangalore Express accident helpline numbers

9:54 AM Gandhidham Bangalore Express, Gandhidham Bangalore Express Accident, Helpline Number, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Accident No comments

The Gandhidham Bangalore Express derailed at Dombivli in Mumbai today. The railways have provided helpline numbers in case you need to know any information about your friends / relatives traveling by the Gandhidham Bangalore Express. The helpline numbers available on NDTV website are listed below:

Ahmedabad - 079 22161313
Gandhidham - 02836 228049
Surat 0261 2418132
Vadodara: 0265 2225735
Vasai - 022 67638006

Gandhidham Bangalore Express derails at Mumbai’s Dombivli

9:52 AM Dombivli, Gandhidham Bangalore Express, Gandhidham Bangalore Express Accident, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Accident No comments

Gandhidham Bangalore Express from Ahmedabad to Bangalore derailed at Mumbai’s Dombivli. As per early reports 12 coaches were derailed. Around 12 passengers are injured as per the current news ad no casualties are reported. The passengers have been shifted to another train while the rescue operations are in process.

Obscene graffiti and phone numbers in local trains

10:35 AM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Boarding a ladies compartment (am unsure about the gents compartments)
in local trains and finding obscene messages, drawings or phone
numbers with names scribbled on the seats and walls is a reality.
Almost all of us end up looking away and ignoring them. Little do we
realize that the number might belong to an innocent person, someone
among us and might become the cause of great embarrassment and
inconvenience.

After reading the story (Mumbai Mirror 29th October
2009) about the girl whose phone number and name were given away, I
believe that it's about time we act. The next time you see a message
or obscene graffiti or phone numbers scribbled in the local trains,
kindly bring it to the notice of the railway authorities. This is the
least we can do to make our daily mode of transport a better place.

Sent from my mobile device

--
Regards,
Anuradha Khanna Pentapalli

On Twitter - http://twitter.com/annucool15

http://bombay-local.blogspot.com
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Central line trains late even at 9 in the night

12:04 AM Central Line, central railway, Local Train, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Trains Late No comments

Central line trains late even at 9 in the night on 26th October 2009
--
Sent from my mobile device

Regards,
Anuradha Khanna Pentapalli

On Twitter - http://twitter.com/annucool15

Mumbai local train status update

6:36 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

On my way back home, will update you with the status soon

--
Sent from my mobile device

Regards,
Anuradha Khanna Pentapalli

On Twitter - http://twitter.com/annucool15

It’s not a strike? Local trains running late, NDTV website has a different story

5:35 PM Central Line, central railway, Local train news, Motorman, Motormen, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Strike No comments

Alright, while the other news channels and websites are talking about motormen going on strike due to various issues, NDTV says the trains are late due to a different reason. Well, if you know the truth, do let us know.
DNA
ZEE News
SamayLive
Rediff

Central Railway motormen strike update; Trains running late

4:13 PM Central Line, central railway, Motorman, Motormen, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Strike 1 comment

Motormen strike update: Trains are currently running 20-40 minutes late (on 26th October 2009, at 4 pm).

If you have the latest update, do let us know.

Trains strike: Central Railway motormen on strike; local train services affected

3:42 PM Central Line, central railway, Motormen, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Strike 1 comment

Mumbai's Central Railway motormen have gone on strike today (26th October, 2009). The strike started on Monday afternoon and many trains were seen stationed between CST and Byculla stations.

As per reports, 140 trains are cancelled. Talks are in progress and apparently motormen are refusing to do overtime. As per Zee News, motormen are protesting lack of action against the guilty in the Thane bridge collapse incident wherein a pipeline fell on a moving train that led to the death of a motorman and 2 others.

There wasn’t any strike when we left for work in the morning. Now that we are already at our workplaces, the motormen decided to go on strike. Wondering if the strike continues how would the local train commuters reach home. As if the Thane train accident (23rd October, 2009) following the pipeline falling on the train was not enough to make poor commuters suffer!

Thane train accident update -Travel to Thane via Kurla-Vashi-Thane route

7:02 PM bombay train, Crowded local train, Crowded Trains, Kurla Station, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane, Thane Vashi Trains, Train Accident, Vashi, Vashi Local No comments

Following the Thane train accident (23rd October 2009)and disruption of services, the railway authorities have taken a fast and smart step to ensure that commuters reach their destinations without much difficulty. Announcements are being made and notice boards been placed at stations that if commuters want to travel to Thane they can go to Kurla, take a train to Vashi and then take the Vashi - Thane train.

Though it is a good move, there is quite some panic among the passengers. Getting in and out of the train is extremely tough. Worst is the platform number 7 of Kurla from where people can board the train to Vashi. At 6:30 pm, when I took the last bridge (Vashi end footover bridge) the platform was so packed that the crowd was standing even at the base of the bridge. Of course, I managed to somehow get in the train since ladies first class was not crowded. But I am sure it had been very tough for the men and the female commuters taking the second class. At every station,we could hear men shouting and stuffing themselves inside the compartments. One bad day in Mumbai local trains :(

Train accident between Thane and Mulund, Pipeline falls on Central line train

12:35 PM Central Line, central railway, Mulund, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Pipeline Falls On Train, Thane, Train Accident 3 comments

A water pipeline fell on a moving train between Thane and Mulund stations today (23rd October 2009). The train was moving from CST to Kalyan i.e. Central Railway's mainline. The incident happened around 10:45 am. As of now, there is news of six commuters being injured. I hope there are no casualties. The motorman (driver) and some passengers are trapped under the debris.

Obviously, train services are affected as the debris is being removed. In fact a few trains are stuck at some stations. A source tells me that there is a lot of water wastage happening due to the pipe burst and the flooding due to it is affecting the operations.

UPDATE - Kurla station is very crowded now at 6.30 pm

Mathura Train Accident - Goa Express Rammed into Mewar Express

10:37 AM Goa Express Accident, Mathura Train Accident, Mewar Express Accident, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Accident No comments

Goa Express from Vasco and Mewar Express from Udaipur were about to reach Hazrat Nizamuddin station on their way to Delhi on 21st October 2009. Apparently, Mewar Express had halted on its track near Mathura when Goa Express moving on the same track rammed into the last bogey of Mewar Express. Unbelievable but true. Innocent passengers, who perhaps were on their way back after Diwali vacation, had to suffer. For no fault of theirs, they are in pain, physical and mental.

Now what? Inquiries? Blame game? Politics? It will continue for a while and the news about the accident will fade away in a few weeks (or days). Only those unfortunate victims of the train accident will have the shock engraved in their minds. When are we going to be serious about safety issues? Two trains on the same track at the same time? It is such a shame. The same railway authorities that make us proud by helping thousands of passengers reach their destination every single day, make us feel ashamed of them with such carelessness. I think they 'realize' that they must do something about such fatal accidents. The question is - are they really doing something about it?

Thane Vashi trains getting crowded by the day

11:27 AM Crowded Trains, Koparkhairane, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane-Vashi, Vashi No comments

When I started travelling from Koparkhairane to Vashi in the morning peak hours, it used to be great. More often than not, I'd get a place to sit and travel super-comfortably. But gradually, commuters in Thane-Vashi line are increasing and it's close to packed in some trains during the morning peak hours. I am talking about the tiny ladies first class compartment, don't know much about the rest. In any case, I really think they should increase the frequency of trains in this line. Also, we need trains after 11:10 pm too. Can't believe the last train from Vashi to Thane leaves at 11:10!

Latest update:
New timetable has been introduced from February 2012: Thane Vashi Local Train Time Table 2012

Indicators working at Koparkhairane station

3:55 PM Indicators, Koparkhairane, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Navi Mumbai, Nerul Thane Trains, Thane Local, Thane Nerul, Vashi, Vashi Local No comments

Last week I was surprised when I reached Navi Mumbai’s Koparkhairane station to board my regular train to Vashi. The indicators were operational and announcements were being made!

Until now, there used to be quite some confusion at the Koparkhairane platforms! Firstly, the frequency of trains is bad, so if you miss one train and you aren’t carrying a timetable, you have no idea how long you’d have to wait.

Secondly, since trains for Vashi as well as Nerul / Panvel arrive at the same platform, every time you board a train at the last minute, you need to ask the fellow commuters about the train’s destination. Not anymore, and it’s such a relief! Add to it that the railway announcements are very clear too!

Now, let’s hope for more trains in this route.

Police firing at Mumbai's Nallasopara station - Video

6:59 PM borivali, Local Train, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Nalasopara, Stone Pelting, Trains Late, Virar No comments

Police fired in the air at around 10:55 am at Nallasopara station to disperse the agitated crowd. Commuters were furious following delay in train services. Watch the Times Now video on this news:

Video Courtesy: Times Now, iStream.in

Chaos at Nalasopara railway station; Police opens fire

4:19 PM bombay train, borivali, Commuters Protest, Local Train, local trains, mumbai, mumbai local, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Nalasopara, Stone Pelting, Trains Late, Virar 4 comments

Today (September 1), the crowd really got violent at Nallasopara station due to the delay in local train services. So much so that the police had to open fire in the air to disperse the people! After all, commuters blocked railway tracks and disrupted services (the same commuters who were annoyed by the delay now added to the delay).

Earlier, an overhead power cable had snapped near Borivali station and then followed late arrival and departure of trains. Worst, this happened at peak hours. As a result, local trains between Borivli and Virar were running late by almost half-an-hour.

Gradually, commuters at Nalasopara station started losing patience, came on the tracks and started protesting against the railways. When cops arrived, they had to face the brunt as angry commuters started pelting stones on them. Eventually, police had to lathi-charge and open fire in the air.

I understand commuters getting furious, I would have lost my temper too in such a situation. But pelting stones??? That was totally uncalled for. Come on guys, aren’t we making things worse? Pelting stones would only result in hurting some of us and breaking window panes of the trains. And then we’ll complain about broken windows. When we expect the railways to improve (and it is trying too), we too must behave better, shouldn’t we? THINK.

By the way, Western line trains were delayed even yesterday (August 31) due to a technical snag at Bhayander station.

14th to 16th August MEGA BLOCK - First and last Harbour line trains timing

8:46 AM CST, Harbour Line Mega Block, Masjid, Mega Block, Mega Block Train First Train, Mega Block Train Last Train, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train 1 comment

As reported earlier, the 48-hour long Mumbai local trains mega block on Central and Harbour lines will start from 14th August 2009. The mega block might cause some inconvenience to the commuters, but we shouldn’t mind since it’s for a good purpose – remodeling of Masjid station.
Now if you are planning to travel by local trains just before / after the mega block, you may want to keep the timings handy. Listed below is the timetable of Harbour Line local trains to and from CST station on 14th to 16th August:

Harbour Line - 14th August Train Timings
Last local train from CST station - 10 pm
Last local train to reach CST station - 9:56 pm

Harbour Line - 15th August Train Timings
No trains will leave from CST or arrive at CST

Harbour Line - 16th August Train Timings
First local train from CST station – 11:50 pm
First local train to reach CST station – 11:33 pm

14th to 16th August MEGA BLOCK - First and last Central line trains timing

8:39 AM CST, Masjid, Mega Block, Mega Block Train First Train, Mega Block Train Last Train, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

As reported earlier, the 48-hour long Mumbai local trains mega block on Central and Harbour lines will start from 14th August 2009. The mega block might cause some inconvenience to the commumega block will start from 14th August 2009ters, but we shouldn’t mind since it’s for a good purpose – remodeling of Masjid station.

Now if you are planning to travel by local trains just before / after the mega block, you may want to keep the timings handy. Listed below is the timetable of Central line local trains to and from CST station on 14th to 16th August:

Central Line / Main Line - 14th August Train Timings
Last local train from CST station - 10 pm
Last local train to reach CST station - 9:51 pm

Central Line / Main Line - 15th August Train Timings
No trains will leave from CST or arrive at CST

Central Line / Main Line - 16th August Train Timings
First local train from CST station – 11:30 pm
First local train to reach CST station – 11:25 pm

Swine Flu: Keep your mouth and nose covered in local trains

7:15 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Swine Flu No comments

It was a sad sight at Koparkhairane station in the morning. Almost everyone had covered their mouth with a handkerchief / mask. Though I was impressed noticing how people are taking precautions, I was upset thinking about the state of local train travelers. The same people who I see chatting away, laughing, gossiping, fighting and joking around in the train wore fear on their faces. It hurts, it really hurts.

I appreciate those who are taking care by covering their mouth and face. I heard people saying that they are not using a mask / cloth since ‘no one else around is doing so’. If you do cover your mouth and nose, you are doing good to yourself and your fellow commuters.

I urge all the commuters to take adequate precautions. I pray no one else be infected with Swine Flu.

Andheri local train rams into Borivli train at Mahim station

3:28 PM andheri, bombay train, borivali, Mahim, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Collision No comments

I am still in a state of disbelief as I watch the news about an Andheri local train ramming into a Borivli / Borivali train at Mahim station on Sunday, 9th August 2009. A local train to Borivli was stationary at Mahim when an Andheri bound train collided with it from behind at around 1:15 in the afternoon. Thankfully it was a Sunday and as of now there aren't any news about any major casualties.

The officials are yet to confirm the cause of the collision - whether it was a human error or technical fault. Whatever it be, Mumbai just can't afford an unfortunate incident like this.

Andheri To Vasai Local Trains Timetable

7:25 PM andheri, Andheri To Vasai, Andheri-Vasai, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Timetables, Vasai 2 comments

Local trains start from Andheri To Vasai station at the following timings:
05:06
06:56 fast train
08:18
10:25 fast train
14:30
16:16 fast train
16:39
16:49
20:25 fast train
20:37
21:10
21:57

Dadar To Borivli / Borivali Fast Trains Timetable

7:18 PM borivali, Dadar, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Fast local trains start from Dadar to Borivli / Borivali station at 18:35 and 20:23 hours.

Dadar To Bhayandar Fast Trains Timetable

7:09 PM Bhayandar, Dadar, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Listed below is the timing of fast trains starting from Dadar to Bhayandar station:
19:39 and 13:12 hours
Do update if there’s any change in this timing. Am a bit unsure if the timing is 19:39 or 9:39, it would be great and helpful to fellow commuters if you confirm this.

Don’t Spit / Swachch Yatra Campaign by Railways

11:08 PM Don’t Spit Campaign, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Am I dreaming? The railways in Mumbai has started an array of initiatives for the betterment of the life of the commuters. The SMS campaign where commuter suggestions are welcome and considered any time... The full-fledged work on having 12 rakes in most of the trains and improvising tracks... Regular announcements to alert people... Drive to stop track-crossing... Introducing new trains, new routes... And now the super duper cleanliness drive! Wow, seems like in no time we’ll be proud to tell the world about the goodness of travelling by Mumbai local trains.

The latest by railways is the Don’t Spit campaign. Had been hearing clear announcements at Elphinstone / Parel station warning people against spitting. The announcements also inform commuters about the punishment. The messages go something like this – krupaya idhar udhar na thunkein (please don’t spit here and there).

Thanks railways for taking this so seriously and imposing fine is necessary. It will really help in maintaining cleanliness. I am tired stopping people when I see them littering / spitting. In some cases, people stop. But then there are these shameless commuters who just say ‘you have no right to stop me from spitting / littering’ and continue their act.

It would help if some of the concerned commuters are given the right / ID cards so that they are empowered to stop the wrongdoers.

Once again, thank you railways!

New CST-Panvel Ladies Special Trains

10:49 PM Ladies Special Harbour Line, Ladies Special Kurla, Ladies Special Panvel, Ladies Special to CST, Ladies special train, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Timetables 4 comments

Ladies travelling on the CST-Panvel railway route may now rejoice... perhaps.

On 5th August 2009 at 4 pm (IST), Minister of Railways Mamata Banerjee is to flag off two new ladies special trains in Mumbai. These trains will start plying on the Panvel-CST route from 6th August 2009. While the ladies special train from Panvel to CST will leave at 8:48 am (reaching CST at 10:09 am), the one from CST to Panvel will start at 5:55 pm (reaching Panvel at 7:12 pm). Good move and kudos to the continuously improving railways.

But then I have one query – do we really need these trains to run at the time mentioned above? I regularly travel on the CST-Panvel route. Kurla is a prime station, where many people alight and board the train, generally those who need to change routes. Now, one may notice that the two ladies special trains reach Kurla at 9:38 am and 6:23 pm. I really feel and believe many of you will agree that if the morning ladies special train left some half-an-hour earlier and the evening ladies special train started half-an-hour later, it would have done much good. Come on, how many of us need to reach our morning destination station, say CST, as late as 10:09 in the morning? How many of us leave from office to reach, say CST, at 5:55 in the evening?

I wonder if commuter opinion has been considered before deciding on the timing of these trains. If yes, and if this was the best possible schedule, then great! If not, then will the railways mind taking a quick poll?

In any case, I would like to really thank the railways for being so thoughtful so as to add to the ladies special services.

PS - Will update this blog with the timing of the train reaching every station soon. Do visit again to check out.

No trains between CST and Masjid stations on 15th and 16th August

10:47 AM Byculla, central railway, Dadar, Ladies Special to CST, Mega Block, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Wadala 2 comments

As per the reports, one of the biggest Central Railway mega block will take place from 15th August to 16th August (night). Local trains will not run between CST and Masjid stations during these 48 hours. This major and crucial step is taken by the railway authorities only to add to the long-term convenience of the commuters.

During the mega block, a huge amount of work will be undertaken at Masjid station including increasing length of platforms for 12-coach trains, creating a seventh track and dismantling the old road over bridge.

On 15th and 16th August, local trains will run up to Byculla or Dadar. Also, Harbour line trains will run up to Wadala station.

We must appreciate that the Central Railway finally took this step and also preferred to carry out the work on a weekend to avoid inconvenience to us. First the super-effective SMS campaign, now this amazing move… Central Railway is improving a lot!

Local train at Vashi arrived and left before time!

3:27 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Vashi No comments

Alright, the 8:42 train (in which the first 3 coaches are for ladies) came and left earlier by just one minute, but then there are hundreds like me who reach running to the platform at 08:42:10 hours! Thank God, that one day I reached at 08:40:33!

Trains, chaahe toh thoda jaldi aao, par time pe station se jaao.

Trains on time at Vashi, still got late

10:37 AM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane Vashi Trains, Vashi, Vashi Station 1 comment

It didn’t rain today and the trains were running almost on time. Still I got late to work by a few minutes! Damn, though the train to CST arrived on time (8:53) at Vashi station, it was so crowded I couldn’t even find a centimeter of space to board it. Looks like all those who bunked office in the last 2-3 days due to rains decided to resume today.

I had no choice but to wait for 14 minutes coz unfortunately there isn’t any train until 9:07. That’s a huge gap in frequency at peak hours! We must have at least two trains reaching Vashi Station between 8:53 and 9:07. What do you think?

Trains, Rains and Me in Mumbai – 14th July 2009 Morning

10:54 PM central railway, Crowded local train, Kurla-CST, Motorman, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Trains and Rains, Vashi, Water Logging No comments

I couldn’t sleep last night for 2 reasons. Firstly, I was completely unwell. Secondly, the sound of breeze with heavy rainfall was frightening enough to awaken Kumbhakaran from his sleep.

So for me, there was no question of sleeping until late due to the sleepy rainy climate. I got up from bed with fever and acidity but I was sure I’ll be able to make it to work... somehow I have the tendency to reach office almost on time especially when it’s pouring kutte billi.

I managed to catch my regular train from Koparkhairane, coz it was a few minutes late. Then I managed to catch a train starting from Vashi almost instantly, coz it was some 45 minutes late. And then, what I was expecting happened – the train wasn’t crowded! I knew that Navi Mumbai janta will leave late from home until they are sure that the local trains are running properly.

Getting off at Kurla and rushing to another platform for my last train in the morning too was like cakewalk – no cheekhna chillaana, no pushing on the foot-over bridge, no giddiness. But soon I faced reality when I started feeling like mayonnaise in a burger… smashed like hell in the crowded compartment. The overcrowded train appeared to prove to the tortoise that it was slower and steadier. Not to blame the motorman of our CST bound local train who was taking utmost care to ensure that the train moved smoothly as water logging had started on the tracks. I noticed people near Tilak Bridge station walking in knee-deep water (zero exaggeration) and wondered if the situation in Parel would be the same. Fortunately, I escaped water-walk at Parel and reached office just a few minutes late.

Well, so my journey to work on a bad rainy day was pleasant enough – not drenched, not very late and all. But then, the day was going too good to be true. Things aren’t that perfect always, are they? Here’s about my return trip.

Mumbai water logging news - Rains hit rail, road traffic

12:24 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Rail, Road Traffic Affected as Rains Hit Mumbai: Jul 14, 2009: Rail and road traffic in Mumbai got affected as rains hit the city on Tuesday.

Local trains on both the central and western lines were running 20-25 minutes late.

Water logging was reported from low-lying Parel, Sion, Andheri, Vadala, Hindmata, Santacruz, Dadar and Mulund...

As on 14th July, 11:30 am

Mumbai local trains status - Trains running late again due to heavy rains |

11:45 AM Kurla Local, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Trains and Rains, Vashi, Vashi Local, Water Logging 1 comment

Last night it poured very heavily in Koparkhairane, though I have not much idea about other parts of Navi Mumbai / Mumbai. But obviously, the trains were running late and how! I boarded an 8:15 Vashi local to CST only after 9. The CST bound trains from Kurla too were running late. In fact, it took me over 30 minutes in the train from Kurla to Parel station.

I hear (television news) that there’s water logging on many tracks, though Mrinal just told me that at around 11:30 am there wasn’t water logging on Wadala tracks as is appearing in the news. Perhaps it’s an earlier footage. Anyways, the best way to know about the current state would be to call up friends who travel on your regular route.

I also hear (television news) that there’s a high tide at around 4 pm.

Do keep updating the status here.

As on 14th July, 2009 (11:30 am)

Rain disrupts rail, road traffic in Mumbai

5:18 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Rail, Road Traffic Affected as Rains Lash Mumbai

Water logging outside Parel / Elphinstone station - July 8

12:10 PM Elphinstone, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Parel, Water Logging No comments

There’s water logging outside Parel / Elphinstone station on the west side. To take bus no. 137, walk up to the main road (under the flyover). It’s a good idea by BEST as people need not stand in the rain water and have the flyover as the roof.

As on July 8 (12 pm)

Water logging - Wadala and Chunabhatti railway tracks

10:16 AM Chunabhatti, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Trains and Rains, Wadala, Water Logging No comments

Reports of water logging on Wadala and Chunabhatti railway tracks due to rains are pouring in.

As on 8th July, 2009 (10 am)

Kindly post your updates on the comments section below.

Mumbai local trains late due to rains

10:09 AM Chunabhatti, Kurla-CST, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Panvel-CST, Trains and Rains, Trains Late, Wadala No comments

Mumbai local trains on the Panvel-CST route are running around 20-25 minutes late today. Trains even on the Kurla-CST route are running pretty late. Obviously, stations are crowded.

Stop littering from local trains – You are educated aren’t you?

6:28 PM Littering from trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train 1 comment

At least once a week, I meet at least one commuter who’s about to litter from the local train. And I am talking about the educated lot. I don’t understand just how many times these people need to be told “don’t throw this outside”!

Well-dressed office-goers enjoy munching packaged chips, chocolates and sipping fountain drinks. And before you know out goes the wrapper or the cup! For that matter, used train coupons and old season tickets find abode on the platforms or beneath the seats of local trains.
Why? Would you litter in your living room and bedrooms too? Then why litter anywhere else? How much effort does it take to carry an extra bag to dump things / dedicate a pocket in your handbags to keep used wrappers / just carry the used wrappers or plastic cups and discard them at the dustbins provided at the stations?

I don’t think we need to be explained why we must not keep throwing kachra at all those places we don’t intend to place our feet on. Stop littering around and if you notice someone doing so, just ask the person to stop.

World-class stations just an idea, can't be implemented: Lalu- Hindustan Times

5:45 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Rail Budget No comments

lalu Prasad Yadav who has been claiming to upgrade 26 railway stations to world-class level, today set the cat among pigeons by quipping that it was just an "idea" which cannot be implemented.

His comments, made in his typical style during a debate on Railway Budget in the Lok Sabha, gave a handle to the BJP which said his "serious" remarks put a question mark on UPA government's promises.

BJP member Ananth Kumar was taking the government to task on rail projects announced in the budget by Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee and commented that "sab kuchh Bangal, baaki sab kangal (all projects for Bengal, the rest are beggars)"... Read more here:
World-class stations just an idea, can't be implemented: Lalu- Hindustan Times

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Bandra to CST trains' time at evening peak hours / night

9:20 PM Bandra Local, Bandra starting Trains, Bandra-CST, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Bandra-starting trains / Bandra local trains are a boon to those who hate crowded trains / travelling on footboard. I seldom use that route but many commuters, especially who take a connecting train from Wadala station, prefer to board a Bandra-starting train.

Bandra-CST trains' timing should have come well in advance on this blog. Well, better late than never. Here's the timetable for Bandra-CST trains at evening peak hours / night time:

17:35
18:04
18:27
18:58
19:20
20:05
20:31
21:02
21:32
22:05
22:37
23:02
23:30

Note: This timetable is as on July 5, 2009

Mamata Banerjee’s Rail Budget 2009 - Highlights or Lowlights

4:48 PM Mamata Banerjee, Mamta Banerjee, Mamta Banerjee Speech Text, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Rail Budget, Rail Budget 2009, Rail Budget New Trains, Railway Budget 2009, Yuva Trains 2 comments

Minister of Railways Mamata Banerjee presented the much awaited Railway Budget 2009-10 on July 3. Here are the highlights / lowlights of the Railway Budget which she says will have approach for 'inclusive growth' and expansion of rail network to take development to every corner of the country:

1. Passenger fare and freight tariff are not decreased (wonder why all the sites are being too positive by saying ‘not increased’)

2. 50 world-class stations (let’s see, by the way who’s defining ‘world-class’ here)

3. 57 new train services, extension of 27 trains (btw by when will these services start?)

4. Increase in frequency of 13 trains (only 13? Is this enough? Maybe…)

5. Proposal for 7 new railway lines, gauge conversion of 17 lines and doubling of 13 lines (no idea what this doubling bit means)

6. Proposals to be processed for 53 new railway lines, 3 gauge conversions and doubling of 12 lines (now what will happen to these proposals is a different thing)

7. Improvement in Tatkal scheme - advance booking period to be reduced from 5 days to 2 days, minimum charge to be reduced to Rs 100 from Rs 150 (this is good… amazing)

8. Improvement in quality of railway catering (I hope so… most of the people I meet prefer to pick up eatables sold at the stations where the trains halt instead of ordering food from pantry; some people I know would rather stay hungry; I however don’t have much issues with the pantry food available in the trains I travel by)

9. 12 non-stop and point-to-point long-distance ‘Duronto’ trains and air-conditioned double-decker coaches for inter-city travel (interesting!)

10. Ticket availability – tickets will be available at post offices and mobile ticketing vans (this is cool, why wasn’t it ever proposed earlier?)

11. Introduction of women RPF Squads (commandos)

12. Safety - modernization of signals, digital ultrasonic flaw detectors, track renewals (great as long as it works out)

13. Izzat – a travel with dignity scheme where people in unorganized sector with monthly income up to Rs 1,500 can get monthly season ticket of Rs 25 for travel up to 100 kilometers (this is good, I have no idea how much paperwork would this involve)

14. Student concession to be extended to students of Madrassas; Kolkata students to enjoy concessional monthly season tickets facilities for Kolkata Metro Rail (I think there should be dedicated student coaches at rush hours)

15. Ladies special EMU trains in Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata during rush hours (mahila ka budget, mahilaayon ke liye!)

16. Yuva trains

17. Media / press to get concession of 50% instead of 30% (aish hai!)

Source: myPOPKORN, Indian Express , The Economic Times

Yuva Trains Proposed in Railway Budget by Mamata Banerjee

2:41 PM Mamata Banerjee, Mamta Banerjee, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Rail Budget, Rail Budget 2009, Railway Budget 2009, Yuva Trains No comments

Wondering what are Yuva trains? Well, in the railway budget 2009-10 Mamata Banerjee has proposed these special trains. Yuva trains will bring a breath of relief to the young generation and the low-income groups. The tickets of these air-conditioned Yuva trains will be reasonably priced.

Mamata Banerjee's Railway Budget News Headlines - First Set of News

12:47 PM Mamata Banerjee, Mamta Banerjee, Mamta Banerjee Speech, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Rail Budget, Rail Budget 2009, Railway Budget 2009 No comments

Here are the Mamata Banerjee's Railway Budget news reports / headlines from various websites:

Railways to sell tickets from 5,000 post offices - IBN

Mamata Banerjee presents Railway Budget - Indian Express

Mamata begins budget speech - SamayLive

Mamta Banerjee to Present Railway Budget 2009 - myPOPKORN

Mamata Banerjee’s Speech on Railway Budget 2009 – First Look

12:38 PM Mamta Banerjee, Mamta Banerjee Speech, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Rail Budget, Rail Budget 2009, Railway Budget 2009 No comments

Mamata Banerjee in her third Railway Budget spoke about the following things among others:

50 international-level stations
Reasonable food
Better washrooms
Shopping malls at railway stations
Medical help in trains
Female commandoes
Ticket availability at 5000 post offices and 500 mobile vans

Will keep you updated as I get more information on Railway Budget 2009-10.

Post Script: Updated info on Railway Budget and mamta Banerjee's speech (text)

Watch the video of Mamata Banerjee's speech here:

Railway Budget (India) - Mamta Banerjee vs Lalu Prasad Yadav

11:16 AM Lalu Prasad Yadav, Mamta Banerjee, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Rail Budget, Railway Budget 2009 No comments

Mamta Banerjee will soon present the Railway Budget for 2009-2010. In the past years, whatever said and done, I found quite some improvements in the railways… of course, many to-be-improved things are yet to-be-improved. But more or less, it was okay. Now with Mamta Banerjee coming into picture, I am not quite sure of the state of things to come. If the fares are reduced substantially and the train services (including frequency, food and facilities at stations) are improved, I would be pleasantly surprised.

Still, I would miss watching Lalu Prasad Yadav presenting the budget. The way in which he presents the budget is amazingly interesting. What with the shaayaris and rhymes! Even if you don’t like the railway budget, at least when he’s announcing things in his peculiar style, you don’t feel bad instantly.

Here are some of the interesting lines by Laluji when he presented Railway Budget 2008-2009:

Sab keh rahe hain humne gazab kaam kiya hai,
Karordon ka munaafa har ek shaam diya hai,
Phal saalon yeh ab dega, paudha jo lagaaya hai,
Seva ka, samarpan ka, har farz nibhaya hai

And:

Nayi kathni, nayi karni, nayi ek soch laye hain,
Tarakki ka nayi parasmani hum khoj laye hain

Hope Mamta too will impress us… not by the shayaris but by the improvements!

Watch what to expect from Railway Budget in this video:

Will try to update this blog on Mamta Banerjee’s speech while introducing the Railway Budget 2009-2010.

Rail Budget 2009 – Expectations from Mamta Banerjee

12:58 PM Mamta Banerjee, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Rail Budget, Rail Budget 2009 No comments

A “pro-people” budget is expected from Mamta Banerjee tomorrow. Though a reduction in train fares is expected, it might not be a drastic one. Well, I just hope the services and train timings are improved, and there is provision for building sufficient foot-over bridges at every station. Rest, we just need to wait and watch!

Read The Times of India news on Rail Budget here.

Trains delayed due to wire snapping at Mulund

11:44 AM central railway, Mulund Station, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

As per reports, local trains on Mumbai’s central line were delayed today (2 July 2009) due to an overhead wire snapping at Mulund railway station at around 5:45 in the morning. The wire snapped at Mulund station’s platform number 1 - 2. Apparently, north-bound services have been restored on the slow track, but repair work is still on.
Source: Indian Express

Central line trains are running late

10:37 AM Bhandup Station, central railway, Kurla Station, Mulund Station, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Trains Late No comments

Central line trains are running very late today. It seems there a problem at Mulund station is causing the delay. A friend who stays at Bhandup just told me that the platforms are so crowded that you can hardly make out anything. Ditto at Kurla… I somehow managed to get in the first class ladies compartment, only to be bashed by the rain as I had no choice but to travel at the footboard.

My friend says that slow trains haven’t arrived at Bhandup station since long. My cab driver said that trains didn’t arrive at Mulund since early morning. There was some announcement at Kurla station, but as always I couldn’t get a single word. If you have any info on this, please update on this blog and help the central railway commuters stay informed.

Do we really need a strict Railway?

2:14 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train 2 comments

Remember how teachers used to control the kids in school ? Good teachers used to hold their attention by teaching in a really interesting and sincere manner. A mediocre or bad teacher simply acted strict. Anything you do gets punishment including asking the right and relevant questions. They instill fear in the hearts of the children and avoid the actual cause of distraction -their bad teaching and reluctance to improve. The railway drive of sending people to prison for crossing the tracks fall in the same league.

What do most people want from railways ? All they want is a) Trains should be on time and b) A good infrastructure including platform, overbridge etc to and from the station. Are we asking for too much ?

Most of us notice the hypocracy of railway in action as displayed on the railway indicator. It displays a train arrival time and when there is no train they quietly change the indicator to show the arrival time of the next train and pretend everything is well.

We Mumbaikars pay obscene amount just to travel to and fro but do we get proper service for that ? How many times do we actually reach some place on time ?

The current drive is a ploy to divert commuter's attention from real issues to sensationalism. Granted people die while crossing track. Granted crossing tracks is risky. People know this and they still cross tracks. Why? One reason is lack of proper planning in making over bridges.

Take Parel station for instance. There is a single narrow over bridge connecting parel with elphinstone and the outside world. It is always crowded. There is a long queue to use it. Even before a train load of people finish using it, the next lot is ready because there is not enough space to move fast. The station can become so crowded that even a minor push can throw a person on the tracks. Do the railway ever notice that ? Does it not make more sense to add one more over bridge or widen the existing one instead of harassing the commuters.

Those in government jobs are a blessed lot. They have no recession or job accountability that other normal mortals face daily. ,Most Mumbaikars find time to be the most precious commodity. This is because a minute here and there can make a difference between full day salary or half day pay cut. A minute late can mean lost client or lost order or a change in attitude of a boss already looking for whose job to cut.

People know they can get injured or die by crossing tracks but they still do mostly to save their jobs. They don't enjoy breaking the law most of the time. Nobody enjoys being hazzled by the police or the TC. Everybody knows what species they are.

The government allots obscene amount to railway for development. Do our stations reflect even a decent percentage of the amount given by the government year after year ?

Why is railways ignoring the infrastructure issue ? How will sending a law abiding citizen to jail solve the real issues facing the railway ? How many more such cosmetic PR campaigns before they decide to attack the root cause ? What is preventing them from acknowledging or resolving fundamental issues once and for all ?

The people do not need strictness drives which only bleeds their hard earned money and productivity. If railway is really serious, just empower the people to enforce accountability and transparency. Give us legal civil and criminal remedy against corrupt and incompetent officials - the people will manage the rest.

- Kumar Dawada

Central Railway’s SMS Feedback Campaign

10:43 AM central railway, Local Train Complaints, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train No comments

Central Railway had started an SMS feedback campaign on April 16. Local train commuters can SMS their suggestions, complaints and feedback to 90044 11111. General Manager Modgil who initiated the campaign personally monitors the feedback / complaints. The suggestions are then sent to the heads of concerned departments who take the necessary steps to improve commuters’ experience.

Know all about the suggestions implemented by Central Railway here.

Courtesy: Mumbai Mirror

Vashi-Thane Train Frequency Needs A Relook

9:25 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, New Bombay, Thane Vashi Trains, Thane-Vashi, Thane-Vashi Time Table, traveller, Vashi No comments

Latest update:
New timetable has been introduced from February 2012: Thane Vashi Local Train Time Table 2012

Older post:

The frequency of local trains plying between Vashi and Thane might have been okay a few months / years ago. But now, the number of people travelling on this route has increased substantially. 20-30 minutes frequency is not at all convenient for the commuters. At peak hours the frequency must be 10 minutes at least, if not five.

One must consider that majority people travelling on this route actually travel really long distances changing 2-4 trains (one-way journey) daily. Now while returning from work after already travelling for an hour or more, if they miss one train at Vashi by a few seconds, they have to wait for half-an-hour.

Consider the train timings from Vashi to Thane in the evening:
7:25
7:45
8:05
8:30
9:00
9:30
10:00
10:30
11:10

It’s not possible for the commuters to shell out 50 rupees or more everyday on auto-rickshaws that have high fares in that side of the city. As a result many commuters cross railway tracks to get into a moving train from Vashi. And almost everyone runs from one platform to another as if hell broke. Seeing people tripping, getting hurt and getting highly frustrated by missing a train by a couple of seconds is a usual sight on the Vashi-Thane route.

It would be great if the commuters’ plight is considered and the frequency of trains is increased.

Kurla local time in morning – peak hours

9:57 PM Kurla Local, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train 1 comment

Kurla local to CST (slow train) leaves from Kurla’s platform number 3 at 9:22 am daily.

This Kurla local is a very comfortable train considering the morning peak hours. If you reach 10 minutes in advance, i.e. as soon as the train arrives, you can easily get a place to sit.

Travelling on train's rooftop is fatal - Mahananda Express video

3:23 AM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Accident, Train Rooftop No comments

People have been warned a hundred times against travelling on the rooftop of trains. The high tension wires are dangerous, but some people don't take it seriously. I apologize for uploading such a gory video, but I feel it is necessary for the train commuters to have a look at it for two reasons:

Never ever even think of travelling on the roof of a train
If you find someone doing so, please raise an alarm... it can save someone's life

I would like to thank the commuter who shot the video and gave it to Zee News, and to myPOPKORN for making it available online. I really feel sorry for the man who died a horrible death on the spot as soon as he touched the wire... it was like a blast... I could never imagine that these wires can be this dangerous.

CAUTION - THIS VIDEO CONTAINS SCENES THAT YOU MIGHT NOT WANT TO SEE, SO PLAY THE VIDEO IF YOU ARE PREPARED TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU TOUCH A HIGH TENSION WIRE FROM TRAIN'S ROOFTOP.

Excerpt from myPOPKORN: May 29, 2009: A freak accident claimed the life of a commuter when he tried to hold onto an overhead high tension wire above a train in Etawah town of Uttar Pradesh.

The passenger, who was said to be mentally disturbed, was on the rooftop of the stationary Mahananda Express when the incident occurred.

He was immediately electrocuted much to the shock of the other passengers at the station..."

Mumbai local trains - every second matters

12:10 AM mumbai, mumbai local, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, New Bombay, Thane Vashi Trains, traveller 4 comments

I hop, skip and jump to get into the trains day in and day out (now you know my weight loss secret). Every single second makes so much of a difference... if I slow down a little bit, I might miss a connecting train, and then miss the next connecting train. And then get late, feel guilty the entire day and wait for another day.

Worst part is when at times to avoid any risk of missing my first train for the day, I take a rickshaw to my next halt only to get a glimpse of my second train bidding goodbye to me!

Life and Mumbai local trains have their own ways of teaching people the importance of time.

Girls travelling in Mumbai local trains - Request No. 1

10:25 PM Crowded local train, crowded train, Irritating Hairstyle in trains, Local Train, local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Navi Mumbai, traveller No comments

Hey gals, it's cool to try out various haircuts and all, but are you sure your hairstyle is not causing any botheration to fellow travelers?

If you have long or curly hair and you happen to board a crowded train, please ensure that your hair's not irritating the one standing behind you. Some girls who even tie up a ponytail keep moving their head like a pendulum! Are you sure you are not constantly hitting the face of the person standing behind you?

Just take your hair in front / use a scarf and people will really appreciate your effort!
That's my request number one (on behalf of all female travelers of Mumbai + Navi Mumbai local trains) in this new request series on the Bombay local blog.

Do write in with your feedback, rants and suggestions.

New Bombay / Navi Mumbai Local Trains Timetable

12:42 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Navi Mumbai, Nerul Thane Trains, Panvel, Panvel to Thane trains, Thane Nerul Train, Thane Panvel Train, Thane Panvel Train Time, Thane Vashi Trains, Vashi 2 comments

Latest update:
New timetable has been introduced from February 2012: Thane Vashi Local Train Time Table 2012

Older post:
I try to update this blog on local trains with the latest timetables. Now, for your quick reference, here's a list of links to the timings of trains to / from the Navi Mumbai area.

Do let me know if you are aware of any new timings / trains.

Panvel to Thane trains timetable

12:36 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Panvel to Thane trains, Panvel-Thane 8 comments

Somehow I missed updating the timetable for the Panvel-Thane trains. On request of my readers, here are the timings. As always, I think you should keep 10 minutes buffer time.

There are 2 Panvel-Thane trains as per my knowledge. They leave from Panvel at:

9:16 am
6:52 pm

Hope it helps you guys. Do let me know if you have any feedback or an updated timing?

UPDATE 1, 2nd Feb 2010: Fast trains to start on Panvel-Thane route from5th Feb 2010. Click here for the timings.

Tamil Nadu train accident: Should passengers now check a motorman's identity?

11:18 AM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Collision No comments

Tamil Nadu train accident is such a shame... Can anyone just simply start driving a train??? And what do the railway authorities expect from the passengers? Should we now go and check a motorman's identity before boarding a train (though the primary report says that the trains were empty... so what... what if there were many passengers)? Like how we have TCs, should some passengers be appointed as MCs (Motorman checkers)?

Why should the janta always suffer... as if the terrorists, crime and diseases weren't enough to kill people! It's time people wake up and take their jobs seriously... anyone listening in railways... or will this message too go unnoticed like the unknown person who took away the train?

Train Collision in Vyasarpadi, Tamil Nadu

10:32 AM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Train Collision No comments

Two trains collided in Tamil Nadu early morning on April 29, 2009. A passenger train from Chennai and the goods train from Arakkonam collided at Jeevanagar railway station in Vyasarpadi.

At least six people died and over 15 were injured as the first reports poured in.

Here's the news video for the entire story.

New Panvel / Nerul to Thane Local Train Time Table from December 21, 2009

11:14 AM local trains, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Nerul Local, Nerul Thane Trains, Nerul-Thane, Nerul-Thane Time Table, Panvel-Thane 16 comments

Additional local trains are plying from Nerul to Thane since the last time I updated the time table on this blog. So here's the latest one.

UPDATE 1: Additional train services are introduced on the transharbour line from 29th May 2010. Pls find the updated timings here.

Do remember to reach the station 10 minutes in advance. Though these are the timings that appeared in the newspapers, some of these trains leave Nerul 10 minutes earlier. Do let me know if you know the actual time when the trains leave Nerul.

Nerul 06:32 - Thane 07:04
Nerul 07:09 - Thane 07:41
Nerul 08:02 - Thane 08:34
Panvel 08:06- Nerul 08:27 - Thane 08:52 FAST TRAIN
Nerul 08:32- Thane 09:03
Nerul 09:24 - Thane 09:56
Panvel 09:16 - Nerul 09:40 - Thane 10:11
Nerul 09:51 - Thane 10:22
Nerul 10:43 - Thane 11:15
Nerul 11:00 - Thane 11:31
Nerul 11:28 - Thane 11:59
Nerul 12:12 - Thane 12:44
Nerul 12:30 - Thane 13:01
Nerul 13:10 - Thane 13:41
Nerul 14:05 - Thane 14:36
Nerul 14:33- Thane 15:04
Nerul 15:25- Thane 15:56
Nerul 16:10 - Thane 16:41
Nerul 16:45 - Thane 17:16
Nerul 17:29 - Thane 18:00
Nerul 18:03 - Thane 18:35
Panvel 18:25- Nerul 18:46 - Thane 19:11 FAST TRAIN
Nerul 18:51 - Thane 19:22
Panvel 18:52 - Nerul 19:17 - Thane 19:48 TIPS
Nerul 19:29 - Thane 20:00
Nerul 20:09 - Thane 20:40
Nerul 20:32 - Thane 21:03
Nerul 20:58 - Thane 21:29
Nerul 21:20 - Thane 21:51
Nerul 21:40 - Thane 22:11
Nerul 22:10 - Thane 22:41 The train left from Nerul at 22.19 on 19th January, please let us know if the train leaves at this time daily
Nerul 23:00 - Thane 23:31

Get the detailed Panvel-Thane fast trains time table here.

New Thane Vashi Trains - Time Table

1:21 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Thane Vashi Trains, Thane-Vashi, Thane-Vashi Time Table, Vashi 3 comments

Updated post:
Latest time table introduced from Febraury 2012: Thane Vashi Local Train Time Table 2012

Older post:
Two new trains have been introduced on the Thane-Vashi route from January 27, 2009.

Here's the time table:
FROM - TO
Thane 22:50 - Vashi 23:23
Vashi 07:20 - Thane 07:48

Updated Nerul-Thane Train Time Table

1:08 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Nerul Thane Trains, Nerul-Thane, Nerul-Thane Time Table 6 comments

PLEASE NOTE: This is an older post. Get the latest Nerul-Thane timings as from 21st December 2009 here

New trains were introduced on the Nerul-Thane Route from 27th January 2009 adding to the respite of the commuters in this route. Here's the timetable for the new train timings. Hope it helps all train travellers! Do let me know in case there's any change in the timing.

New trains plying from Nerul to Thane:
Nerul 08:35 - Thane 09:07
Nerul 10:01 - Thane 10:33
Nerul 11:28 - Thane 12:00
Nerul 13:00 - Thane 13:32
Nerul 14:43 - Thane 15:15
Nerul 16:10 - Thane 16:42
Nerul 17:37 - Thane 18:09
Nerul 19:00 - Thane 19:32
Nerul 20:20 - Thane 20:52
Nerul 21:40 - Thane 22:12

Updated Thane-Nerul-Panvel Train Time Table

12:50 PM Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Thane - Turbhe - Nerul Route, Thane Local, Thane Nerul, Thane Nerul New Time Table, Thane Nerul Train, Thane Nerul Train Time, Thane Panvel Train Time, Thane-Nerul-Panvel 26 comments

New trains were introduced on the Thane-Nerul Route from 27th January 2009 adding to the respite of the commuters in this route. Here's the updated timetable that includes both the old and the new train timings (had added the earlier timings when this train service was introduced here). Hope it helps all train travellers! Do let me know in case there's any change in the timing.

UPDATE 1: New trains are introduced on the route from 21st December 2009!
UPDATE 2: Fast trains introduced from Thane to Panvel for the first time. Click here for detailed timings and stations where the trains will halt.

UPDATE 3: Time Table effective 29th May 2010

Trains plying from Thane to Nerul / Panvel:
Thane 05:50 - Nerul 06:22 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 06:25 - Nerul 06:57 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 07:23 - Nerul 07:55 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 07:55 - Nerul 08:27 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 08:05 - Panvel 9:00
Thane 08:41 - Nerul 09:13 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 09:14 - Nerul 09:46 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 10:03 - Nerul 10:21 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 10:15 - Nerul 10:47 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 10:21 - Nerul 10:53 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 10:30 - Nerul 11:02
Thane 11:25 - Nerul 11:57 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 11:50 - Nerul 12:22
Thane 12:15 - Nerul 12:47 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 13:22 - Nerul 13:54
Thane 14:00 - Nerul 14:32 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 14:54 - Nerul 15:26
Thane 15:30 - Nerul 16:02 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 16:15 - Nerul 16:47
Thane 16:50 - Nerul 17:22 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 17:24 - Nerul 17:56 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 17:50 - Panvel 18:44
Thane 18:20 - Nerul 18:52 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 18:42 - Nerul 19:14 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 19:25 - Nerul 19:57 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 19:40 - Nerul 20:12 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 19:58 - Nerul 20:30
Thane 20:41 - Nerul 21:13 (new train from 21st December 2009)
Thane 21:00 - Nerul 21:32 (new train from 27th January 2009)
Thane 21:40 - Nerul 22:12 (new train from 21st December 2009)

Thane-Turbhe-Nerul-Panvel Local Trains

10:42 PM Local Train, Mumbai Local Trains, mumbai train, Panvel, Thane - Turbhe - Nerul Route, Thane Local, Thane Nerul, Thane Nerul Train, Thane Nerul Train Time, Thane Panvel Train, Thane Panvel Train Time, Trane Train Time Table 7 comments

New suburban train services on Thane - Turbhe - Nerul route were inaugurated today! Regular train services on these routes will start from January 10 2009.

Now could I ask for more! I really needed trains plying on this route to make my life easier - so that I visit my parents and brother without changing trains or spoiling my mood arguing with the rickshaw drivers who for no reason charge 50% extra.

Now let me make your life easier too. Here are the local train timings of trains plying from Thane to Nerul / Panvel:

Thane 08:05 - Panvel 9:00
Thane 10:30 - Nerul 11:02
Thane 11:50 - Nerul 12:22
Thane 13:22 - Nerul 13:54
Thane 14:54 - Nerul 15:26
Thane 16:15 - Nerul 16:47
Thane 17:50 - Panvel 18:44
Thane 19:58 - Nerul 20:30

Keep this time table handy. Will soon write another post on local train timings from Panvel / Nerul to Thane.

Train timing courtesy: The Times of India January 9 issue

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