Mumbai Local Trains 101- A Complete Beginner’s Guide

Welcome to the pulse of the city! Mumbai Local Trains are the essential lifeline for millions of commuters. While the “Super Dense Crush Load” might seem scary, this guide will turn you into a pro. Whether you are a student or a new professional, here is everything you need to navigate the tracks.

Essential Tips for Navigating Mumbai Local Trains

1. Smart Ticketing: The UTS App & Mumbai One

Skip the long queues at the ticket window. In 2025, the UTS App is the gold standard. While the 5km outer limit has been removed, the geo-fencing rule still requires you to be at least 15–30 meters away from the tracks to book a “Paperless Ticket.” If you’re inside the station, you must use the QR Code posters found near the entrance.

2. Live Tracking: Yatri vs. M-indicator

While M-indicator remains a favourite for schedules, Yatri is now the official partner app of the Railways. Use these to track live train locations and check platform numbers in real-time. Crucially, check these apps on Sundays for “Mega Block” updates—scheduled maintenance that can significantly alter train timings.

3. New Station Names: Don’t Get Lost!

In 2024 and 2025, several British-era station names were officially changed. You might see the new names on the UTS app while locals still use the old ones:

• Marine Lines – Mumbadevi
• Charni Road – Girgaon
• Mumbai Central – Nana Jagannath Shankarsheth
• Currey Road – Lalbaug
• Sandhurst Road – Dongri

4. Ladies, General and Handicapped Compartments

Trains are divided into specific sections for comfort and safety. There are Ladies Compartments (some 24-hour, others allowing men after 11 PM), Divyangjan (handicapped) coaches, and General coaches. Look for the colour-coded indicators on the platform to ensure you are standing in the right spot before the train arrives.

5. First class and AC locals

For a sweat-free journey, look for the AC Locals. These have automatic sliding doors and require a specific AC ticket or pass. First Class offers cushioned seats but is not air-conditioned. Note: In 2025, TTEs (Ticket Examiners) strictly require an ID card alongside your pass, especially for AC travel.

Here are 9 things you should know before moving to Mumbai.

6. Fast and slow trains

Slow (S) trains stop at every station, while Fast (F) trains skip smaller halts. Always check the indicators: BO 09:10 F 05 means a Borivali-bound Fast train arriving in 5 minutes. If your destination is a small station, ensure you are on a “Slow” train!

7. Peak hours

Peak hours in Mumbai are typically 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM (towards South Mumbai) and 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM (away from South Mumbai). During these times, the “rush” is literal. If you’re a beginner, try to travel during “Non-Peak” hours (12 PM – 4 PM) to get a feel for the crowd.

If you have to travel at this time, DO NOT get into the compartments near the ladies’ first class. Always opt for the middle compartments, or the ones at the beginning in the direction the train is heading. These compartments usually tend to be a little less crowded.

8. Virar locals (western line only)

On the Western Line, Virar-bound trains are legendary. If you are getting off at Andheri or Borivali during evening peak hours, do not board a Virar local. Long-distance commuters often get frustrated with short-distance travellers “taking up space” on these specific trains.

9. Unspoken Rules

10. Navigating Confusing Junctions

Major hubs like Dadar, Kurla, and Parel can be confusing as they serve multiple lines. Dadar, for instance, has different platform numbers for the Western and Central lines. Always give yourself an extra 10 minutes to navigate the foot over-bridges when switching lines.

Things to remember while travelling

Bags

Bag in the front always. This makes sure that all your belongings are safe. Locals and platforms are crowded, and having an eye on your bag is necessary. This is also important to ensure that your bag doesn’t get in the way of yourself or others while getting on or off. Keeping your bag behind may be a hindrance for anyone trying to get in after you, and it may also get stuck while you’re trying to get off.

Stand on the correct side

While travelling during rush hour, make sure you stand on the side from which people will be getting off. They usually leave space for people getting in, and you do not want to be blocked by that crowd. Don’t forget to confirm whether the person ahead of you is getting off at the same station.

Travel safe!

FAQ’s