Western Rly schedules high-speed tests along Virar-Dahanu section
The rakes will be tested in two configurations. Representational Pic
Time for the 18-car local train rollout in the city has arrived. Mumbai railway’s next leap in suburban capacity boost is now entering a decisive phase. The Western Railway has scheduled crucial Emergency Braking Distance (EBD) and coupler force trials for 18-car EMU rakes on the Virar-Dahanu Road section in mid-January. mid-day had highlighted in its July 1, 2025, edition that suburban railway activists had demanded introduction of 18-car local trains to boost crowd capacity.
The trials, planned for January 14-15, will evaluate two distinct 18-car formations. One is that of the Bombardier-class rakes that are proposed to be tested at speeds of up to 110 kmph, and the other is of rakes with Medha Electricals, slated for trials up to 105 kmph. Officials explained that EBD trials determine the distance a train takes to come to a halt under emergency braking, while coupler force tests measure longitudinal forces between coaches during such braking. Both are mandatory safety clearances before higher speeds and full passenger operations are permitted, especially for longer, heavier 18-car formations.
The Virar-Dahanu stretch is one of the few suburban corridors that allow sustained higher-speed runs with minimal interference. Western Railway has been asked to ensure rake readiness and proper loading conditions so that results reflect real-world operating scenarios. Railway officials said the outcome will be closely watched, as it will shape future deployment of 18-car locals on the Western Railway corridor, where peak-hour crowding remains acute.
With both Bombardier and Medha systems being evaluated in parallel, the trials will also provide comparative performance data for India’s suburban rail technology roadmap. If successful, the tests would clear another major regulatory hurdle, bringing Mumbai a step closer to longer, faster, and safer suburban services on Western Railway.
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