The Central Railway, a division of Indian Railways, announced the introduction of 10 more AC local train services on its main line from Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to Thane, Badlapur, and Kalyan. Reportedly, these new AC, local sub-urban trains will replace 10 existing non-AC local trains.

The footfall on the AC local trains in Mumbai's main line has increased by more than 55% ever since the authorities slashed its fare prices by 50%. The AC trains are certainly a step in the right direction.

As per the official announcement, four trains each will run on Badlapur-CSMT-Badlapur (2 Up, 2 Down) and Thane-CSMT-Thane (2 Up, 2 Down) and two on Kalyan-CSMT-Kalyan (1 Up, 1 Down).

This move to bring AC trains was taken after an overwhelming response by passengers post-May 5, when AC local train prices were slashed by the Central Railways. Reportedly, these new trains are expected to start service next week.

As of now, there are 56 AC local trains which ply on weekdays, however, with the addition of 10 new services, a total of 66 AC trains will cater to the commutes of over 1 lac passengers everyday.

Currently, the Central Railways division manages 1,810 local train services, catering to the needs of over 40 lacs passengers daily. While the total number of daily suburban services on Central Railway will remain the same (1,810) on weekdays, additional AC and other season special services will be started soon.