Overcrowded Mumbai-Valsad Fast Train Triggers Commuter Outrage: Demand for Double-Decker Rakes

Mumbai, Maharashtra:  Commuters on the Mumbai Central-Valsad fast train are facing severe overcrowding following the replacement of double-decker rakes with outdated single-decker coaches. The situation has led to growing frustration among passengers, with several filing complaints to Western Railway, demanding the reintroduction of newer Linke-Hofmann-Busch (LHB) double-decker non-AC coaches.

Prathamesh Prabhutendolkar, a regular commuter, expressed his dissatisfaction, noting that the train’s capacity has dropped from accommodating around 300 passengers to fewer than half that number. He pointed out that the previous double-decker rakes had wider doors for smoother boarding and alighting, a feature that has been lost with the current ICF coaches.

“During both up and down journeys, the crowd makes it almost impossible to board or disembark from stations like Dahanu, Virar, and Boisar,” said Prabhutendolkar. He also highlighted that another train on the same route to Ahmedabad is still using LHB double-decker AC coaches, further intensifying the demand for an upgrade on the Mumbai-Valsad route.

Western Railway has responded to the complaints, with Chief PRO Vineet Abhishek explaining that the codal life of the previous double-decker coaches had expired, necessitating the replacement with the ICF coaches. However, he assured that the number of coaches has been increased from 18 to 22 to improve convenience.

Despite this, commuters remain insistent that double-decker rakes are the key solution to their ongoing struggles with overcrowding.