Mumbai: Western Railway's plan for smooth travel to Konkan Railway

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A RAIL link that would enable direct trains from Mumbai Central to the Konkan Railway stretch, known as the Vasai bypass, and a chord line between Naigaon and Juchandra, have been categorised as one of the important works on the Western Railway (WR) in this year's interim budget document, with funds allocated.

"A sum of Rs 50 lakh has been allotted to this ‘chord' line. The crucial link between Naigaon and Juchandra will be of immense help to commuters and outstation passenger traffic. Its survey has been completed, and it will boost traffic movement," an official said.

"Yes, currently there are very few special trains available from Mumbai that go to the southern region along the Konkan Railway stretch. Trains from North India pass through Vasai, and those residing in western suburbs need to reach Vasai to board these trains," said Yashwant Jadyar, general secretary of the Virar-Sawantwadi KR Passenger Association.

The survey for this project was sanctioned in the 2018 railway budget. Commuters along the Western Railway are compelled to travel to Dadar on the Central Railway or to Panvel, or take limited trains at Vasai. The small 5.73-km stretch between the WR's Naigaon station and Juchandra station on the Vasai-Diva line will be a double-line rail flyover connector.

Trains originating from Mumbai Central, Dadar, or Bandra Terminus for the Konkan Railway and southern India need to undergo an engine reversal at Vasai, leading to time loss. Hence, at present, only holiday specials and limited trains take this route.