Central Railway Implements Changes to Mumbai-bound Duronto Express
The Central Railway (CR) has implemented modifications to the Duronto Express serving Mumbai. As part of these changes, six sleeper coaches have been replaced with third air-conditioned coaches, significantly reducing the number of sleeper class options available to passengers.
This decision is likely to have a significant financial impact on middle-class travellers, who heavily rely on the sleeper class as their preferred choice of travel. Previously, the Duronto Express consistently operated at full capacity. However, following the change in composition, the third air-conditioned coaches are now operating at only half their capacity, as the availability of seats exceeds the current demand.
This move has sparked concern among the marginal and middle-class population, who often choose the sleeper class due to its affordability. Unfortunately, the Central Government has decided to enforce this new policy, replacing sleeper coaches, which typically ranged from eight to ten in Mail/Express trains, with third air-conditioned coaches.
The Mumbai Duronto Express and its counterpart train to Nagpur typically operated with a composition of 22 bogies, including eight sleeper coaches that provided a comfortable option for those unable to afford air-conditioned coaches. However, with the recent decision by the Board, these sleeper coaches, also known as economy coaches, have been replaced with third air-conditioned coaches, leaving the common man in a difficult position.
This change has raised concerns among passengers from the middle-class segment, who feel that their preferred mode of travel has been disregarded. The impact of these modifications on ticket prices and the availability of affordable options for passengers remains a key concern.
