Konkan Railway and Central Railway will operate a special unreserved MEMU train between Diva and Chiplun to manage the summer holiday rush. This service will run from May 1, 2026, to June 7, 2026, providing additional travel options for passengers. The train will operate three days a week, specifically on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
What is the schedule and timing of the special MEMU train?
The service consists of an 8-coach unreserved train that does not require advance booking. The timings for the journey are as follows:
| Train Number | Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01159 | Diva to Chiplun | 11:25 PM | 06:30 AM (Next Day) |
| 01160 | Chiplun to Diva | 03:30 PM | 11:10 PM (Same Day) |
Which stations will the train stop at?
The train will stop at several key stations to help local commuters. The list of halts includes Panvel, Kalamboli, Taloja Panchnand, Nilje, Pen, Roha, Mangaon, Veer, and Chiplun, along with other smaller stations like Anjani, Khed, and Kolad. In total, 36 trips will be completed during the operational period.
What are the reactions and official status of the service?
While the railway administration introduced this to help passengers, some local groups have expressed concerns. Akshay Mahapadi from the Akhand Konkan Railway Pravasi Seva Samiti questioned the use of an 8-coach train for such a long distance and the choice of Diva as the starting point. It is also clarified that this is a temporary special service and not a permanent addition to the schedule.