AC locals may get first class coaches

The recently inaugurated AC local trains may soon be compartmentalised in First and General Class and may also see a different fare structure in the near future.

"This (compartmentalisation of AC train) is just a proposal that we are examining," Ashwani Lohani, Chairman Railway Board told DNA.

If the compartmentalisation is implemented, it would simply mean that there would be coaches with features like cushioned seats and sun blinders while the general coaches will be similar to the existing ones.

While the air-conditioned service is yet in its initial stages, commuters have already been making demands for a revision in fares.

Under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) 3-A that got an in-principal nod on January 12, 210 AC rakes worth Rs 17,859 crore have been proposed. "We want to convert a majority of the suburban trains into AC and so henceforth only AC rakes shall be procured," said a senior railway official.

These new rakes have been planned keeping the expansion of suburban rail to neighbouring districts on the metropolitan region as well. Apart from this, a provision of Rs 2,388 crore has been made for setting up of maintenance facilities for the AC rakes. Sources said that the carsheds and workshops on both WR and CR – namely at Mahalaxmi, Matunga, Virar, Kalwa and Sanpada – will be augmented for these AC rakes.