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Two new 15-car train rakes have arrived at the Virar carshed, boosting capacity on the Western Railway suburban network in Mumbai as it plans a total of 17 15-car services on Virar-Dahanu route, officials said.

The additions are expected to improve passenger convenience, especially during peak hours.

Railway officials said that approximately 17 suburban services will soon be upgraded from 12-car to 15-car trains. The move is aimed at reducing overcrowding and increasing carrying capacity on some of the busiest routes.

First-time introduction on Virar-Dahanu route

In a significant development, 15-car services will be introduced for the first time on the Virar-Dahanu section, officials said.

Around eight services on this stretch will be converted to 15-car trains, benefiting daily commuters in the extended suburban corridor.

Churchgate-Virar services also to benefit

In addition, about nine services between Churchgate and Virar will also be upgraded to 15-car trains.

This route is among the most crowded suburban sections, and the move is expected to ease congestion.

With a total of 17 services being converted, the initiative is part of ongoing efforts by Western Railway to enhance suburban rail capacity and provide a more comfortable travel experience.

WR conducts successful 15-coach EMU trial

A trial run of an EMU train was successfully conducted earlier by Western Railway in coordination with MRVC. The upgraded platforms are scheduled to be handed over to the Zonal Railway shortly for commencing 15-coach suburban services.

Significant progress has been achieved under the Virar-Dahanu Road (VR-DRD) quadrupling project with capacity augmentation works at Virar (VR) station.

Platform No. 3A and 4A have been widened from 6.50 metres to 10.50 metres and extended to accommodate 15-coach local trains, as against the earlier provision for 12-coach trains. In addition, a new home platform (Platform No. 5A) has been constructed on the western side.

The works have been completed in a record time of four months, demonstrating efficient execution despite operational constraints at this high-density suburban station.

A trial run of an EMU train was successfully conducted today by Western Railway in coordination with MRVC. The upgraded platforms are scheduled to be handed over to the Zonal Railway shortly for commencing 15-coach suburban services.

These developments will significantly enhance carrying capacity, improve passenger convenience, and support the growing commuter demand on the Western suburban corridor.