Mumbai train services affected at evening rush hour amid protest by train managers at CSMT

The disruption during the evening peak period affected daily commuters. Representational Pic/File

Suburban train services at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) were affected during the evening rush hour on Wednesday after train managers began a ‘work to rule' protest over a recently issued railway safety circular.

The disruption led to the cancellation of at least three local train services, causing inconvenience to commuters travelling during peak hours.

According to railway officials, the protest began after the introduction of Safety Circular Number 15, which reportedly changes the working method of train guards, also known as train managers.

Some train managers at CSMT started strictly following operational rules and procedures as part of the protest, slowing down train operations on the suburban network.

CR confirms cancellations

Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, confirmed the disruption.

"Some train managers at CSMT have started work to rule due to the Safety Circular Number 15 that has been issued recently. Due to this, three local trains have been cancelled so far," he told mid-day.

Commuters face delays

The disruption during the evening peak period affected daily commuters on Mumbai's busy suburban railway network, which is considered the lifeline of the city.

Issue resolved after talks

Railway officials said discussions were held with the protesting train managers to resolve the issue which was later concluded and services were restored to normal.