BEST got no SOS for CR’s bad day

A major disruption on Central Railway’s (CR) suburban network threw Mumbai’s transport system into chaos on Monday, leaving thousands of commuters stranded during peak hours. With train services severely affected well into the evening, commuters were forced to turn to roads for alternatives. However, the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking did not deploy additional buses, citing the absence of an official request from CR.

The disruption began during the morning rush hour following technical snags, including signal failures and overhead equipment issues along the main line. Train schedules quickly unravelled, resulting in prolonged delays, train bunching and overcrowded platforms between Thane and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). The backlog persisted well into the evening, leaving commuters stranded at several major stations.

With local train services severely disrupted, thousands of office-goers were left scrambling for alternative transport. Many resorted to walking along major roads and railway overbridges, while taxi and autorickshaw stands saw long queues. Extended waiting times and allegations of fare gouging added to commuters’ woes.