The face of the local railway, considered the 'lifeline' in Mumbai's daily life, is about to change. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has informed that a major decision has been made to modernize suburban railway coaches and convert them into AC coaches like the metro. Notably, even after this change, there will be no burden on passengers' pockets, as he clarified that there will be 'not a single rupee' increase in ticket prices.
While responding to the final week proposal presented by the opposition in the legislature, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made this announcement. He stated that the condition of passengers traveling in suburban railways is very difficult, and accidents are occurring continuously. To curb this, a demand was made to the central government to include modern, AC-equipped coaches with closed doors like the metro in the local trains.
“Today's Mumbai is divided into two different faces. On one side, there is the metro where travel is comfortable, and on the other side, there is the suburban railway where one has to travel with caution. It's time to change this picture,” he said. Chief Minister Fadnavis mentioned that discussions have taken place with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw regarding this matter. A positive response has been received, and soon the Railway Minister will personally come to Mumbai to make an official announcement about this decision. The new AC coaches will not be 'retrofitted' but newly developed and of high quality. The doors will be completely secure and closed, which will enhance passenger safety.
Ticket prices 'as is': No financial burden on passengers
Although passengers are concerned about a potential increase in ticket prices after this change, the Chief Minister has put these doubts to rest. “There will not be a single rupee increase in ticket prices for this new AC local. This facility is primarily for ordinary passengers, and the government's main objective is to ensure a comfortable and safe journey without any financial burden on them,” he stated firmly.
Navi Mumbai Airport and Edu City project also in final stage
Chief Minister Fadnavis provided information about other important projects in the state along with improvements in Mumbai Metro Rail. The work on Navi Mumbai International Airport is in the final stage and will be completed by the end of September, he announced. This airport will give a significant boost to the state's international connectivity. “The Edu City project is underway in Navi Mumbai, where renowned universities from around the world will come. Invitations have been sent to 10 foreign universities, and 5 of them have already signed agreements. This project will provide Maharashtra with an international standard educational center,” he said.