AC locals a distant dream as permissions still in limbo

While Mumbaikars await the much-touted air-conditioned local, the files pertaining to final permissions for the train have been languishing in Lucknow with the Research, Design and Safety Organisation (RDSO). The Western Railway (WR) officials said that they have completed all the mandatory tests and submitted reports to the RDSO for final approvals.

The RDSO has been monitoring the performance of the AC local which arrived in May last year. According to sources, more than 12 to 15 tests have been conducted wherein they broadly checked the train's oscillation, braking and speed. Right now they are working on its integration with the Train Management System. Its internal software has been riddled with glitches in the past as well.

WR officials said that they have managed to tackle the issue of door closing and temperature of air conditioner inside the rake. "We expect permissions within another two months or so from RDSO," said AK Gupta, General Manager, Western Railway.

Depending on the response, WR will decide the timetable and fares. The earlier deadline for it to run was October.