Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, May 30: Rail services on the busy Mumbai–Pune route were disrupted on Friday after the Deccan Express suffered a locomotive failure between Vangani and Neral stations, causing significant delays to long-distance and suburban train operations.
The incident occurred during the morning hours when the locomotive of the 11007 Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)-Pune Deccan Express developed a technical fault, forcing the train to remain stranded on the main line for more than 90 minutes.
According to Central Railway officials, the diesel locomotive failed around 8.41 a.m. Efforts to rectify the issue on-site proved unsuccessful, prompting railway authorities to arrange a replacement engine from Karjat. The train manager requested a new locomotive at approximately 8.55 a.m., and the replacement engine was attached before the train resumed its journey towards Pune at around 9.25 a.m.
The prolonged halt resulted in the Deccan Express reaching Pune nearly two hours behind schedule.
The breakdown also had a cascading impact on rail operations across the corridor. Several long-distance trains operating on the Mumbai–Pune route and services bound for southern India experienced delays as train movements were regulated around the affected section.
Railway officials confirmed that one suburban local service had to be cancelled due to reduced line capacity while efforts were underway to clear the stranded express and position the replacement locomotive.
Commuters travelling on Central Railway's suburban network also faced inconvenience, with local trains originating from Ambernath and Badlapur towards CSMT running up to 30 minutes behind schedule. Delays were caused by congestion and temporary traffic restrictions imposed to manage the disruption.
Passengers aboard the Deccan Express described the situation as confusing and frustrating. Several travellers reportedly disembarked from the train and walked along the tracks towards nearby stations in search of alternative transport options after being stranded for an extended period.
Railway personnel were deployed to manage the situation and restore normal operations as quickly as possible. However, the disruption on a key rail artery affected multiple services throughout the morning.
Passengers and commuters urged railway authorities to improve communication during such emergencies, stating that timely announcements and regular updates could help reduce uncertainty and discourage unsafe behaviour near railway tracks.
Train operations gradually returned to normal after the replacement locomotive was attached and the affected section was cleared.