KRCL Launches Car-Carrying Rail Service Between Mumbai and Goa
The Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) is set to introduce a Roll-on Roll-off (Ro-Ro) train service for private vehicles, offering a safer and more comfortable alternative to the challenging road journey between Mumbai and Goa.
Konkan RailwayMumbaiGoaRoro ServiceTravelReal Estate MumbaiJun 09, 2025
The pilot service is expected to begin around the Ganapati festival season and will allow passengers to drive their vehicles onto specially designed rail wagons, then relax while the train transports them through the scenic Konkan route. The 10- to 12-hour road journey between Mumbai and Goa is known for sharp turns, ghat sections, heavy traffic, and seasonal weather disruptions—all of which this service hopes to circumvent.
The Ro-Ro model involves vehicles being driven onto low-floor rail wagons using ramps. These wagons can accommodate vehicles up to 3.425 meters in height and have already been in operation for trucks running between Kolad in Maharashtra and Mangalore in Karnataka. Truck drivers typically accompany their vehicles and rest in their cabins during transit. A similar system will be employed for private cars, although each train will require a minimum of 40 vehicles to operate cost-effectively.
In anticipation of the monsoon, KRCL has enhanced its preparedness across the route. This year, the special monsoon timetable will run from 15th June to 20th October. These include deploying 636 trained personnel to monitor vulnerable areas, installing LED signals and automated rain gauges at key locations, and enforcing speed restrictions during low visibility conditions.
Having already established a reliable freight Ro-Ro system, extending the model to private vehicles marks a significant step forward for KRCL. If successful, the project could serve as a blueprint for similar services on other congested routes across India, offering road-trippers a premium, stress-free alternative while reducing highway congestion and environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Roll-on Roll-off (Ro-Ro) train service?
The Roll-on Roll-off (Ro-Ro) train service allows vehicles to be driven onto specially designed rail wagons and transported by train, providing a safer and more comfortable alternative to road travel.
When is the pilot service expected to begin?
The pilot service is expected to begin around the Ganapati festival season.
What are the main benefits of the Ro-Ro service?
The main benefits include a safer journey, reduced travel time, and a more comfortable experience compared to the challenging road journey, especially during monsoon seasons.
How many vehicles can the Ro-Ro wagons accommodate?
The Ro-Ro wagons can accommodate vehicles up to 3.425 meters in height, and each train will require a minimum of 40 vehicles to operate cost-effectively.
What steps has KRCL taken to enhance safety during the monsoon?
KRCL has deployed 636 trained personnel to monitor vulnerable areas, installed LED signals and automated rain gauges at key locations, and enforced speed restrictions during low visibility conditions.
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