Major Train Derailment Disrupts Mumbai-Surat Line, Causes Widespread Disruptions

In a significant incident on May 28th, 2024, a goods train experienced the derailment of six wagons and one BVG at point no 117/118 within Palghar yard. The train, transporting steel coils from the Waltair Division of the East Coast Railway to Kalamboli station in Maharashtra, faced the mishap at approximately 17:08 hrs.

The aftermath of the derailment has severely impacted the UP line of the Mumbai-Surat section, leading to widespread disruptions in train services. As a consequence, 41 trains have been cancelled, while 18 others have faced partial cancellations. Additionally, nine trains were diverted, and 22 trains had their schedules rearranged. Notably, Mumbai suburban locals to and from Dahanu Road have been suspended until 12 noon on May 29th, 2024.

Swift response efforts were initiated following the incident, with Accident Relief Trains (ART) mobilized from nearby locations including Valsad, Udhna, Nandurbar, and Bandra Terminus. Of the six derailed wagons, five were found capsized, while approximately 300 sleepers of a section of the UP line at Palghar yard suffered damage.

Senior railway officials are actively overseeing the restoration operations at the site, with more than 300 railway personnel working diligently to expedite the track’s repair. A fleet of machinery, including four JCBs, two Poclains, two cranes, and four other machines, has been deployed to restore the affected line.

Efforts are underway to promptly restore the UP line of the affected Mumbai-Surat section at Palghar Yard. Despite the challenges, the unloading of sleepers for the mainline and turnout is ongoing at the site. Notably, work is being conducted without disrupting the movement of trains, with 41 trains in the DOWN direction and seven in the UP direction already operational.