STN: Mumbai’s local trains will soon have air-conditioned coaches. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced this update in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. The state government will not change the ticket fare despite the upgrade.
AC Coaches Mumbai Locals to Get Metro-Like Features
The local trains will have metro-like features such as automatic doors and air-conditioned interiors. Fadnavis said this move aims to improve daily travel for commuters. It also addresses safety concerns.
This development comes after a train accident in Mumbra on June 9 that led to five deaths. Fadnavis referred to this incident and said there is a big gap between the fully AC Metro trains and the older suburban trains. Metro trains have closed doors, while local trains still run with open doors, making them unsafe when overcrowded.
No Fare Change for AC Coaches Mumbai Locals
Despite the upgrade, the fare will remain the same. The Chief Minister said he has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to add metro-style coaches to local trains without raising prices.
Fadnavis mentioned that Union Railway Minister Vaishnaw will soon make a formal announcement. The exact date for introducing the new coaches is yet to be shared.
Other Infrastructure Updates from CM Fadnavis
Apart from the train upgrade, Fadnavis gave updates on several projects:
- The underground Colaba-BKC-Aarey Metro Line 3 is expected to become fully operational by October.
- The Navi Mumbai International Airport will be ready by the end of September.
- Work on the Vadhavan Port is progressing quickly. The port will be one of the top ten globally.
- Development of the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA) is ongoing.
Fadnavis also shared that an Education City will be developed in Navi Mumbai. It will attract foreign universities and offer affordable education. Five universities have already signed agreements.
Law and Order Updates
The Chief Minister shared updates on crime and safety:
- There is a 6.75% drop in the crime rate statewide and an 11% drop in Nagpur.
- Cybercrime case detection has improved to 16%.
- In rape cases, 99.5% of the accused are known to the victims.
- Over 2,000 arrests have been made in drug-related cases. MCOCA is now applicable to drug offenders.
- Thirteen police officers involved in misconduct have been removed from service.
- Investigations will now be completed within 90 days, and forensic evidence will be prioritized.
Fadnavis also denied the presence of any “honeytrap” racket targeting government officials. He said there was no proof to support such claims.