Amid persistent overcrowding, delays and connectivity challenges on Mumbai’s suburban railway network, Maharashtra BJP president and MLA Ravindra Chavan has urged Central Railway to consider introducing additional local train services from Dombivli, Diva and Nilje.
Chavan met Central Railway Divisional Railway Manager Hiresh Meena at the railway headquarters at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to discuss the difficulties faced by commuters travelling across the Kalyan-Dombivli belt. The meeting covered peak-hour connectivity, passenger safety, station crowd management and delays affecting everyday journeys.
Hourly Nilje-Mumbai Service Among Key Proposals
A major demand raised during the discussions was an hourly local train service connecting Nilje station with Mumbai during peak periods. Commuters have also called for direct services to Mumbai from Dombivli and Diva during busy hours to reduce congestion, waiting times and travel-related difficulties.
The demands come as residential development continues across Kalyan-Dombivli and neighbouring localities, placing increasing pressure on existing transport infrastructure. For residents of rapidly expanding housing complexes, dependable suburban rail services are particularly important during morning and evening rush hours.
Chavan urged railway officials to examine concerns shared by passenger representatives and explore measures to improve the commuting experience. However, Central Railway has not yet confirmed whether the proposed services will be introduced.
Passenger Organisations Seek Better Connectivity
The meeting followed discussions on September 26, when representatives of railway passenger organisations met Chavan to highlight commuter grievances. Satish Singh, representing the Casa Rio and Casa Rio Gold cooperative housing societies federation in Lodha Palava, also participated in the meeting with railway officials.
The latest initiative follows wider engagement with commuter groups across the Thane-Mumbai region. Representatives from 48 passenger organisations had previously met Chavan at Dombivli Gymkhana to raise concerns about railway capacity, passenger safety and direct connectivity.
Railway Decision Remains Pending
Implementing additional services would require Central Railway’s approval, timetable changes and an assessment of operational capacity.
For commuters in Dombivli, Diva and Nilje, the outcome will determine whether the proposals translate into more frequent trains, better crowd management and safer journeys. Until an official announcement is made, the additional services remain demands rather than confirmed additions to the suburban timetable.
Source: News 18
