Harbour line trouble: Fracture near Kurla delays services in Mumbai

Commuters faced trouble on Monday because of delayed train services — result of a rail fracture between Kurla and Chunabhatti, in which the track develops cracks because of fluctuations in weather or wear and tear.

Harbour line commuters started the week on a sour note.

According to railway sources, the fracture was found on the north bound line, between Chunabhatti and Kurla stations, around 7am. It applied brakes on Vashi and Panvel-bound trains and affected the schedule. (HT File Photo)

After the mega block between Nerul and Mankhrud on Sunday, that resulted in suspension of all services between Panvel and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) from 11.30am to 3.30pm, commuters faced trouble on Monday because of delayed train services — result of a rail fracture, in which the track develops cracks because of fluctuations in weather or wear and tear.

According to railway sources, the fracture was found on the north bound line, between Chunabhatti and Kurla stations, around 7am. It applied brakes on Vashi and Panvel-bound trains and affected the schedule.

Commuters complained that the trains were running at least 30 to 40 minutes late because of the problem. It resulted in overcrowded trains and platforms during rush hour.

The Central Railway spokesperson, however, tweeted that the trains were running just 10-15 minutes late.

Railway services in Mumbai often get affected because of rail fractures, especially when fluctuations take place in weather. A day before, main line services of the Central railway were hit because of a rail fracture near Kalyan station.