Mumbai Ganpati Visarjan 2026: Charni Road Footfall Nearly Doubles As Journey Passengers Reach 26,098

On September 25, 2026, Charni Road railway station experienced a significant surge in passenger activity during the Ganpati Visarjan festivities, with journey passengers reaching 26,098 - nearly double the 13,938 passengers recorded on September 18. This marked an increase in both the number of journey tickets sold, from 9,408 to 17,214, and the volume of devotees heading towards the Girgaon-Chowpatty area for the immersion of Ganpati idols.

Western Railway took proactive measures to handle the anticipated crowds by opening additional ticket booking counters and setting up a medical camp at the station. Railway doctors were on standby to address any medical emergencies, while senior railway officers monitored the crowd movement and ensured smooth operations. Station staff were stationed at critical points to assist passengers and facilitate the orderly flow of people.

In addition to station arrangements, Western Railway also introduced extra suburban train services during the late night in both directions to accommodate passengers returning after the immersion process. These late-night trains aimed to prevent stranded passengers and provide a means for devotees to return home safely.

The surge in footfall at Charni Road was observed amidst heightened activity across South Mumbai during the concluding day of Ganpati celebrations. The station functions as a key railway access point for devotees traveling to Girgaon Chowpatty, a popular location for the immersion of Ganpati idols.

The substantial increase in ticket sales and passenger numbers underscores the extent to which rail travel is relied upon during major festivals in Mumbai. For the railways, managing crowd flow at stations like Charni Road is paramount as thousands of passengers gather in a concentrated timeframe, especially during evening and late-night immersion periods.