About the New Service
Indian Railways has approved a new daily Express train, strengthening the connection between Mumbai and the southern Konkan region. Operating as train number 15087 from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and 15088 on its return from Sawantwadi
Road, this service is designed to cater to tourists, students, and business travellers. The train will make travel more convenient along the busy corridor, covering a distance of approximately 510 kilometres. This initiative is expected to boost the regional economy by making the area's beautiful beaches, historic forts, and eco-tourism spots more accessible.
Key Stations on the Route
The new express service features 22 commercial stops, ensuring comprehensive connectivity across the Konkan belt. After departing from CSMT, the train makes key stops within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region at Dadar, Thane, and Panvel before proceeding down the coast. Other important stations on the route include Roha, Khed, Chiplun, Ratnagiri, Rajapur Road, Kankavli, Sindhudurg, and Kudal, before its final destination at Sawantwadi Road. This extensive list of halts provides passengers with numerous options for accessing different parts of the Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts.
Kankavli: Gateway to Central Sindhudurg
Kankavli is a crucial station on this route and a gateway to the heart of the Sindhudurg district. Upon arrival, travellers will find a range of last-mile transport options. Auto-rickshaws are readily available outside the station for short trips within the town. For longer journeys or those with more luggage, local taxi services can be hired. Ride-sharing services like Uber also operate in Kankavli, offering Uber Auto and cab services that can be booked directly through their app. This makes it a convenient point for tourists heading to nearby attractions.
Kudal: Your Connection to Coastal Gems
Kudal is the nearest railway station for travellers aiming to visit the popular coastal destinations of Malvan and Tarkarli. The station is located about 30-45 km from these beach towns. Just outside Kudal station, state transport buses are available, offering an affordable way to reach Malvan, which serves as a hub for getting to Tarkarli. Alternatively, auto-rickshaws and private taxis are also available for a more direct and faster journey, though it is advisable to bargain for a fair price before starting your trip. The journey by road typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half.
Sawantwadi Road: The Final Stop
The train's terminus, Sawantwadi Road, serves the historic town of Sawantwadi, known for its wooden toys and scenic lake. It is also a strategic stop for those heading further south to Goa. The station is well-connected with local transport. Auto-rickshaws are the primary mode for getting into Sawantwadi town itself. For trips to destinations like Amboli Ghat or onward travel to North Goa, hiring a private taxi is the most convenient option. As with other stations in the region, bus services connect the railway station to the main bus stand in town, from where further connections are available.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
To make the most of your travel on this new service, booking your train tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and holidays. You can book tickets online through the official IRCTC website or app. For last-mile travel, while auto-rickshaws and taxis are generally available at all major stations, their availability might be limited late at night. It's a good practice to have the contact numbers of a few local taxi operators handy, especially if you have a specific destination in mind. Finally, remember that while premium trains like the Tejas Express also ply this route with fewer stops, this new daily express offers greater connectivity to smaller towns.
