Mumbai: Central Railway (CR) is once again considering the introduction of air-conditioned (AC) local trains on the Harbour line. The proposal follows a strong surge in patronage for AC local trains on the Main line, prompting railway officials to reassess the potential demand on the Harbour corridor.

AC local train services were earlier introduced on the Harbour line in 2021 but were withdrawn in 2022 due to low occupancy. The AC rakes were subsequently shifted to the Main line, where they have since received an encouraging response.

“With increased awareness and rising commuter expectations, the demand for more comfortable travel options is growing. We're reviewing the feasibility of reintroducing AC locals on the Harbour line,” said a senior CR official.

As per the new proposal, a total of 14 AC local services will be introduced—seven in the up direction and seven in the down direction on the Harbour line. These services are likely to replace currently running non-AC services. They will include two services during peak hours, catering to office-goers and daily commuters.

Among the proposed changes, the Panvel-CSMT non-AC local departing at 9:09 am will be upgraded to an AC rake, arriving at CSMT at 10:30 am. Similarly, the 5:30 pm Vadala-Panvel service, currently running with a non-AC train, will also be replaced with an AC rake.

Additional services set to transition to AC rakes include three Panvel-CSMT, two Vashi-Vadala, and one Panvel-Vadala train in the up direction. On the down route, the plan includes three CSMT-Panvel, two Vadala-Panvel, one CSMT-Vashi, and the 5:30 pm Vadala-Panvel service.

While the exact date for the launch of these AC services is yet to be finalized, officials confirmed that a detailed proposal has already been prepared and is under review.

"If approved and implemented, the move could mark a significant upgrade for Harbour line commuters, offering a more comfortable and efficient alternative to existing services" said an official.