Mumbai local trains set to go fully air-conditioned; Mumbaikars question: Will fares rise?

The Maharashtra government has recently revealed its plans to upgrade all current Mumbai local trains to fully air-conditioned (AC) models. This initiative aims to improve passenger comfort during the intense heat and address the issue of overcrowding in the city’s essential transport system. Additionally, reports indicate that between now and December 25, 10 to 12 more AC local trains will be added to the current schedule. Mumbaikars are expressing their opinions on this new initiative and whether it will be advantageous for everyone. 

Some believe that enhancing the quality of the existing trains is more crucial than just introducing new ones. It would be beneficial to reinstate the program that ensures train doors close properly, which would help alleviate overcrowding and decrease the frequency of accidents. It’s also encouraging to know that more AC trains will be incorporated into the railway timetable. In the past, if you missed an AC train by just a few seconds, you had to wait over an hour for the next one.

Others said to maintain a balance between AC and non-AC trains. The working class includes everyday people who may not be able to afford AC ticket prices, especially for daily commutes, unless they keep the ticket prices at ₹5, ₹10, or ₹20 depending on the distance. Additionally, the central railways should continue operating non-AC trains since those routes become very crowded, particularly during peak hours. This overcrowding can cause suffocation and other health problems for passengers in tightly packed coaches.

A regular traveller said that they usually try to steer clear of AC trains. Mumbai’s heat is intense, and then you step into the train, and it’s freezing inside. I’ve noticed people bringing puffer jackets and shawls along. The constant change in temperature really increases the chances of catching a cold. The AC trains from Virar are particularly bad; there’s hardly any room to stand, and if you end up under the AC vent, you’re in for a tough time with cold air blowing right on you. Last year, when I traveled during the monsoon, it was one of the worst experiences I’ve had. Water would drip from the vents, and during heavy rains, it felt like there was a stream of water running through the coaches.

Another one said that it makes sense to hold off until there’s a proper impact study on whether this decision is feasible. It’s going to end up costing taxpayers, and even if all services switch to AC, the expenses need to be considered. People from all economic backgrounds, from the lowest to the upper-middle class, rely on these trains. Plus, how the government plans to implement this and phase out the existing local trains is crucial for it to work. Whether they decide to upgrade the old trains or introduce new ones will make a big difference. Overall, it’s an ambitious plan, and I really hope they have strategies ready for all possible outcomes.

Some believe this is a bad idea. They should concentrate on making sure the trains run on time and have better frequency. The authorities need to focus on improving the overall quality of the trains instead of just converting all local trains to AC. I’m also worried about the safety of women in AC trains. It can get really uncomfortable and stuffy during long trips in those compartments.