Special event held at Palghar station to celebrate new long-distance train halt; commuters voice key demands

Commuter organisations are urging the immediate deployment of 15-coach suburban trains along this route to alleviate the travel strain for daily travellers. Pic/ Rajendra B. Aklekar

A special programme was recently conducted at the Palghar railway station to commemorate the newly sanctioned stop of the Bandra-Bhuj Kutch Express, a long-distance train. The event was attended by Palghar MP Dr. Hemant Savara, senior railway officials, representatives from various commuter organisations, rail enthusiasts, local civic groups, and numerous citizens.

During the event, extensive discussions were held on the daily challenges faced by commuters, safety concerns, and gaps in services. The attendees placed several important demands before the MP and railway officials.

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The discussions focused on key issues, including:

Demand for 15-coach locals on the Dahanu-Virar route

At present, commuters travelling between Dahanu and Virar encounter significant overcrowding, inadequate train services, and regular delays. Commuter organisations are urging the immediate deployment of 15-coach suburban trains along this route to alleviate the travel strain for daily travellers.

Installation of CCTV cameras between Dahanu and Vaitarna

Several safety concerns have been reported on the Dahanu-Vaitarna route. Commuters urged authorities to install CCTV cameras at stations and on platforms along this section to enhance safety, especially for women and general passengers.

Unjust superfast surcharge on the Udhna-Bandra train

Although the Udhna-Bandra train is classified as a "replacement service," it continues to attract a superfast surcharge despite its average speed being only 43 km/h. Commuters called this charge unjustified and demanded its immediate withdrawal.

Reducing time gaps between suburban services

Commuters highlighted the lack of adequate and timely local train services between Dahanu and Churchgate. They urged authorities to introduce more trains and reduce intervals between existing services to ensure smoother travel.

CCTV in women's coaches

To enhance the security of women passengers, a strong demand was made to install dedicated CCTV systems inside women's compartments across suburban trains operating in the region.

During the event, MP Dr. Hemant Savara engaged in constructive dialogue with commuter representatives, assuring them that all demands were noted and that necessary follow-up would be initiated at the appropriate administrative levels. Senior railway officials present also confirmed that the issues raised would be forwarded to the relevant departments for consideration.

The programme saw active participation from passenger associations, rail enthusiasts, local citizens, and social workers. Many attendees remarked that this was a significant step towards the long-awaited improvement of railway services in Palghar district.