Dahanu–Vaitarna Commuters Demand Better Rail Services, 15-Coach Locals At Palghar Event

A special programme held at Palghar railway station on Sunday turned into a significant platform for addressing the longstanding demands of commuters from the Dahanu–Vaitarna region. The occasion, marking the newly sanctioned halt of the Bandra–Bhuj Kutch Express at Palghar, saw the participation of Palghar MP Dr. Hemant Savara, senior railway officials, and members of several commuter organizations, including the Dahanu Vaitarna Pravasi Sevabhavi Sanstha.

Western Railway recently announced experimental halts for Train No. 22955/22956 Bandra Terminus–Bhuj Kutch Express and Train No. 12490/12489 Dadar–Bikaner Express at Palghar — a move welcomed by locals and rail enthusiasts. However, the event quickly became a focal point for voicing broader commuter issues affecting daily passengers along the Dahanu–Virar–Churchgate stretch.

Passenger groups highlighted severe overcrowding and delays in existing services and called for the immediate extension of 15-coach suburban trains to Dahanu. They argued that this would significantly reduce the burden on daily commuters and improve travel comfort.

In addition, raising concerns about passenger safety, especially for women, commuters demanded the installation of CCTV cameras at all stations and platforms between Dahanu and Vaitarna.

Passengers also took issue with the classification of the Udhna–Bandra train as a “replacement service,” despite its average speed being just 43 km/h. They denounced the inclusion of a superfast surcharge as “unjustified” and called for its immediate removal.

Commuters further expressed frustration over long waiting times between local train services. They called for more frequent trains, especially during peak hours, to better connect Dahanu, Virar, and Churchgate.

Dr. Hemant Savara, MP from Palghar, engaged directly with commuter representatives and assured them that their concerns were heard. “All these demands have been noted, and necessary follow-up will be initiated at the appropriate administrative levels,” he said.

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