15 December,2010 06:55 AM IST | | Vedika Chaubey
Length of platforms to be modified to accommodate 24-coach trains, after surge in railway bookings
Skyrocketing airfares have come as a boon to the Railways.
To cater to the sudden surge in railway bookings, the Western Railway is planning to increase the length of platforms to accommodate 24 coach trains instead of 18 coach trains.
Railway officials say there is an 18 per cent increase in ticket booking owing to the increase in airfares
With the modification, WR can increase the number of coaches of trains like Rajdhani Express, August Kranti, Duronto, Gujarat Mail, Karnawati Express and Golden Temple.
According to railway officials, there was an 18 per cent increase in ticket booking owing to the increase in airfares. "Instead of buying expensive flight tickets, people are choosing to book high-end AC tickets.
We have recorded an increase in number of passengers not only on the Mumbai-Delhi route, but all routes including Gujarat and Rajasthan," said a Western Railway official.
At present, platform number one at Bombay Central Terminal has the capacity to run 24-coach trains but the other platforms are yet to be made.
Length of platform number 2,3 and 4 will be increased so that 24-coach trains can be fitted. With this modification, six coaches can be added and over 500 more passengers can be accommodated in each train.
Sharat Chandrayan, Chief PRO, WR, said, "We are to increase the length of the platform so that we can benefit passengers. To cater to the increasing rush, the Railways is planning to take necessary steps."
Andheri and Borivli railway stations already have the length to run 24 coach trains. "We are trying to complete the work as soon as possible but it will take more than a year," added Chandrayan.
Passengers are thrilled with the idea of 24-coach trains. Rameshwar P, who had booked a Rajdhani ticket last week, said, "It is much better for me.
Previously, I used to choose the airlines, but now, I will book train tickets only as it is more convenient and comfortable.
Echoing the same sentiments, Renuka Shah, another frequent flier, said, "I usually travel by train but sometimes I have to go by flight in case my ticket is not confirmed.
But if more coaches are added, there will be more space and travel will be more comfortable."
