35 Lakh Daily Commuters: Central Railway Urges 800 Mumbai Offices to Change Work Hours
35 Lakh Daily Commuters: Central Railway Urges 800 Mumbai Offices to Change Work Hours
With 1,810 trains ferrying over 35 lakh passengers daily, CR seeks help from government and private offices to ease peak hour congestion.
In a bold move to tackle Mumbai’s infamous local train crowding, the Central Railway (CR) has reached out to over 800 offices including central and state government institutions, corporate offices, banks, municipal bodies, colleges, and other establishments, urging them to stagger their work timings. The appeal aims to reduce the burden on the rail network during peak hours and enhance passenger safety and comfort.
CR officials noted that more than 35 lakh people travel daily on the 1,810 trains operated by Central Railway. Despite being the most economical and fastest mode of transport in the city, overcrowding has become a serious concern, particularly during peak hours between 8 am and 10 am and 5 pm to 7 pm.
The letter sent by CR emphasizes that a phased change in office hours could help distribute the rush more evenly throughout the day, especially on the busy stretch between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Thane. This would not only reduce congestion but also minimize risks and make daily commuting safer for Mumbaikars.
Given the critical nature of the issue, CR has also formally requested the Maharashtra State Government’s intervention. Officials believe that support from the state would help ensure a more coordinated and effective implementation of the proposed staggered work schedules.
The railway authorities further highlighted that although there is a growing demand for new rail lines particularly between CSMT and Kalyan, severe space constraints make immediate expansion unfeasible. As a result, staggering office timings emerges as a practical and immediate solution to relieve pressure on the city’s lifeline.
With the cooperation of institutions and government intervention, CR hopes that Mumbai’s travel experience can be transformed from a daily struggle to a safer, more manageable routine.
