16 June,2026 01:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
MP Hemant Savara assures action on Bhavnagar Express halt at Palghar (Pic/Special arrangement)
The long-standing demand for a scheduled halt of Train No. 12971/12972 Bhavnagar Express at Palghar Railway Station has received a significant boost, with Palghar MP Hemant Vishnu Savara assuring local representatives that the matter is being actively pursued with the Railway Ministry.
The delegation, comprising representatives of Kutchi, Gujarati and Jain community groups, urged the MP to pursue the long-pending demand with the Railway Ministry. They said a scheduled stop at Palghar would benefit passengers from Palghar, Boisar, Safale and adjoining areas who frequently travel to Gujarat.
The delegation, while briefing Hemant Vishnu about their demands, pointed out that the demand for the train's stoppage at Palghar has remained pending for several years despite repeated representations.
They also highlighted that a scheduled halt would benefit thousands of commuters and long-distance travellers across the district while improving regional rail connectivity.
Furthermore, special emphasis was laid on the needs of the Jain community, many of whose members undertake regular journeys to pilgrimage destinations in Gujarat.
The representatives said that a halt at Palghar would provide greater convenience and reduce the need to travel to neighbouring stations to board the train.
Responding to the memorandum, MP Hemant Savara assured the delegation that the issue has already been taken up with the Railway Ministry and that follow-up efforts are underway. According to the representatives, the MP expressed confidence that a favourable decision could be reached and reiterated his commitment to addressing the long-pending public demand.
The assurance has renewed hopes among residents and community organisations, which have been advocating for the Bhavnagar Express halt for many years. Local leaders believe that the stoppage would not only ease travel for passengers but also strengthen connectivity between Palghar district and Gujarat, benefiting traders, students, pilgrims and families alike.
If approved by the Railways, the addition of a halt for Train No. 12971/12972 Bhavnagar Express at Palghar Railway Station is expected to mark a significant improvement in passenger convenience and fulfil a longstanding aspiration of the region's residents.
