Mumbai-Savantwadi Express Launched With Scheduled Halts at Thane and Panvel
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde flagged off the inaugural service of the daily Mumbai-Savantwadi Express from Platform 18 of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus on Thursday, introducing a direct service with scheduled halts at stations including Thane, Dadar, and Panvel.
The new train service operates between CSMT and Sawantwadi Road, stopping at major stations including Dadar, Thane, Panvel, Ratnagiri, Kankavli, and Kudal. Speaking at the launch, Shinde termed the service a major gift for the people of Konkan ahead of the Ganeshotsav festival, noting that it will mark the next phase of tourism development across the region.
Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal attended the launch event virtually. Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, Fisheries and Ports Minister Nitesh Rane, and Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde were also present at the terminal.
Shinde stated that the daily express will strengthen rail connectivity between Mumbai and Konkan, benefiting thousands of passengers heading to their native places for the upcoming festival. He added that improved rail links would make the region's beaches, forts, religious sites, and cultural attractions more accessible, while delivering a boost to local hotels, transport operators, and employment opportunities.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal noted that the service will connect millions of families and serve passengers across Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg. He highlighted that regular connectivity along the corridor will support regional trade, tourism, and broader economic development.
Addressing rail infrastructure, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that projects worth approximately Rs 18,000 crore are currently underway to expand Mumbai’s suburban rail network capacity. The railway authorities are targeting an increase in daily suburban services from the current 3,200 to 3,500 by 2030.
Vaishnaw also announced that 350 special trains are operating this year to manage passenger demand during the festive period, with arrangements in place to run an additional 20 services if required. Furthermore, the Railways has placed orders for 238 air-conditioned local train rakes, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2027 and conclude by 2030.
