CSMT-Panvel ride to get faster by 15 minutes

Mumbai: The Central Railway (CR) plans to increase the speed limit on the Mankhurd–Panvel section of the Harbour Line from 80 kmph to 105 kmph. The proposal has been sent to headquarters; if approved, it would need the approval of the Commissioner of Railway Safety.

S.K. Jain, Divisional Regional Manager, said a higher speed limit will reduce the travel time between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Panvel by around 15 minutes.

The CR also plans to introduce Bombardier rakes on the Harbour Line — it has received 15 and will get another nine in the coming months — and wants to better utilise the higher speeds these trains are capable of.

Green station

The CR will convert Mankhurd into a green station. It will be the second after Asangaon, which, last month, was declared a green-energy-powered station with a windmill, solar panels, LED lights, and energy efficient fans.

Mr. Jain said by next March, every station in the suburban section will have at least one escalator.

The CR is also planning a heritage galli at the P. D’Mello Road side of the CSMT. Officials have identified 16 objects which are part of railway history, including a steam-powered crane, which is present at the site and is being restored.

The CR is raising tracks at some sections. “We have identified around 50 km of track. It is technically feasible,” he said. “We have already raised around 20 km and will complete the works before the monsoon.”

Mr. Jain said the CR will also complete the widening of six culverts.

Mr. Jain also said that regular mega blocks have significantly improved overall performance in the Mumbai Division.

Monsoon preparedness

The CR has also announced a slew of projects to tackle flooding in low-lying areas and other pre-monsoon preparations.

Chief among them is the installation of two pumps with a capacity of 1,000 cubic meters per hour. “We plan to install one of of them at Kurla station,” Mr. Jain said. “We are still deciding on the location of the other.”

The CR has also identified 76 spots in the suburban section, which need removal of silt. “The BMC had sent us a list of 36 locations. We upgraded it to 76. Work at 50 spots is complete. By April 15, we intend to complete all spots.” he said.

The CR will be conducting a joint inspection of the locations from April 7, and another round of works will be conducted if any deficiencies are found. The project will be completed by May 15.