[ad_1]
Recently, the Maharashtra government announced a plan to convert all existing Mumbai locals into fully air-conditioned (AC) trains with an aim to increase comfort amid the scorching heat and tackle congestion in the city’s lifeline.
Reports also suggest that 10 to 12 additional AC local rakes are also being added to the existing schedule till December 25. Mumbaikars share their views on this new program and whether it will be beneficial for everyone
Adarsh Oliveira, Social Media Manager, Dahisar
I believe it is more important to improve the quality of existing trains rather than focusing on new trains. Bring back the program where train doors close, which will help with congestion and reduce the number of accidents that occur. It is also good to hear that they are going to add more AC trains in the railway schedule. Earlier, if you missed an AC train by a few seconds, you had to wait for more than an hour to catch the next train.
Lester Francis Lobo, IT Consultant, Borivali
In all honesty, this is a good move, pending study of the feasibility impact of this decision, as ultimately the taxpayer will have to bear the cost… even if all services are converted to AC, the cost has to be kept in mind. should, because people travel here from the lowest economic strata of the society to the upper-middle class.. Also, how is the government planning to implement it and how is it going to phase out the existing local is, it is a big factor in successful implementation Will happen (whether they convert it into old vehicles or bring in new ones). Overall, this is an ambitious move, hopefully they have plans for all possible scenarios.
Nidhi Lodaya, Media Professional, Ghatkopar
AC trains are good but similar to metros, and can be a bit stuffy due to lack of ventilation. I have seen AC trains and metros crammed full of people during peak hours and I am used to ‘packed’ working as the doors cannot be closed and the windows cannot be opened. I have traveled in the metro (in Ghatkopar-Versova line) and during monsoon it stinks due to no ventilation. I fear the same will happen in AC trains also.
Nicole Ellis, Copywriter, Chembur
I think this is a terrible idea. Focus more on ensuring that trains are on time and have better frequency. The authorities should also focus on improving the overall quality of trains instead of making all local trains AC trains. I am also concerned about the safety of women in AC trains. When you travel in AC trains for long hours it can become very suffocating.
Kevin Barreto, Public Relations Professional, Mahim
We should have a balance of trains – AC and non-AC trains. The working class also includes the common man, who would not be able to afford AC tickets, especially when traveling on a daily basis; That’s as long as they keep the ticket prices the same 5, 10, or 20 depending on the distance of the station. Whereas, Central Railways needs to retain non-AC trains as those lines get very crowded, especially during peak hours. This can cause suffocation and other health problems to people inside the overcrowded boxes.
Anoushka Madan, Sales and Marketing, Kandivali
I try to avoid traveling by AC trains. It is very hot in Mumbai and very cold inside the train, I have seen people carrying puffer jackets and shawls with them. There is a high possibility that you will catch cold due to constant temperature changes. AC trains running from Virar are the worst; There’s no room to stand, so if you’re stuck under an AC vent, God help you because the cold air will blow straight on your head. Last year, when I traveled during monsoon, it was the worst time of my life. Water drips from the vents and if it rains heavily, it’s like a whole stream of water in the coaches.
[ad_2]
