AC local train passengers on Central Railway and Western Railway have been growing exponentially but are still low compared to the overall passenger count owing to the lack of more trains and other related factors. Passenger numbers have increased by 228 per cent on CR and 309 per cent on WR compared to May 2022. However, the daily average number of passengers using AC locals is still close to about 2 lakh, compared to the nearly 75 lakh passengers a day on the full suburban section. Western Railway has received a better response between the two railways.

These latest statistics gain importance in the context of the Ministry of Railways deciding to upgrade Mumbai local trains to classy Vande Metro trains. The procurement of 238 Vande Metro (suburban) trains under Mumbai Urban Transport Project 3 and 3A has been cleared.