Central Railway has announced a mega block on 16th March 2025 to carry out essential maintenance work on Mumbai’s suburban train network. The block will affect several routes, including the Thane-Kalyan Fast Line, Harbour Line, and Trans-Harbour Line. Mail and express trains will also experience diversions.
Thane-Kalyan Fast Line to be Diverted
The mega block on 16th March 2025 will impact fast locals on the Thane-Kalyan section from 10:40 AM to 3:40 PM. Down Fast and Semi-Fast locals will be diverted to the Down Slow line between Thane and Kalyan, stopping at Kalva, Mumbra, and Diva. This will add around 10 minutes to their journey.
Up Fast and Semi-Fast locals will run on the Up Slow line between Kalyan and Thane, stopping at Diva, Mumbra, and Kalva before switching back to the Up Fast line at Mulund. These trains will also face a delay of about 10 minutes.
Harbour Line Services Suspended
Harbour Line passengers will also feel the impact of the mega block on 16th March 2025. Down Harbour Line services from CSMT to Panvel/Belapur will be suspended from 9:45 AM to 3:12 PM. Up Harbour Line services from Panvel to CSMT will not run between 10:33 AM and 3:49 PM.
Trans-Harbour Line Services Affected
Trans-Harbour Line services between Thane and Panvel will be unavailable during the block. Up Trans-Harbour trains to Thane will be suspended from 11:02 AM to 3:53 PM. Down Trans-Harbour trains to Panvel will not operate between 10:01 AM and 3:20 PM.
Mail and Express Train Diversions
Mail and express trains won’t be spared during the mega block on 16th March 2025. Down Mail/Express trains will be diverted to the 5th line between Thane and Kalyan. Up Mail/Express trains will be rerouted via the 6th line between Kalyan and Thane/Vikhroli. These diversions may cause minor delays.
Special Arrangements for Passengers
To reduce inconvenience, Central Railway has planned some special arrangements. Special local trains will operate on the CSMT–Vashi section during the block period. Additionally, Trans-Harbour Line services will be available between Thane and Vashi/Nerul stations.
Alternative Travel Options
Commuters are advised to plan their journeys in advance and consider alternative routes. Passengers can use slow locals, which will continue to run, though with possible crowding. For Harbour Line users, switching to the Central Line might be an option if their destination is accessible. Road travel through buses or taxis could also help bypass the affected train routes.
Reason for the Mega Block
The mega block on 16th March 2025 is necessary for engineering and track maintenance work. Regular maintenance ensures smoother and safer train operations. While these blocks may cause temporary inconvenience, they play a crucial role in enhancing long-term efficiency and safety.
Passenger Advisory
Central Railway has urged passengers to check train schedules and use available public transport alternatives. Regular updates will be provided through station announcements and Central Railway’s official social media channels.
With the mega block on 16th March 2025 set to affect thousands of daily commuters, planning ahead is essential to avoid last-minute delays and crowded trains.
