In a major relief for railway passengers across Chandrapur district and wider Vidarbha region, the Union railway ministry has approved a new train service between Ballarshah and Mumbai, fulfilling a long-pending demand of over a decade. This move marks the introduction of the first direct rail connectivity between Ballarshah and Mumbai.
The newly sanctioned 20105/20106 Lokmanya Tilak Terminus-Ballarshah Express received official approval from Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw following persistent efforts by MLA Sudhir Mungantiwar. Vaishnaw formally conveyed the decision to Mungantiwar in a letter dated May 10.
The train is expected to significantly enhance travel convenience for passengers from Chandrapur, Ballarpur, and adjoining areas, providing seamless connectivity to Mumbai — a key hub for employment, education, healthcare, and commerce. The service will particularly benefit students from the region who travel to Mumbai for higher education, offering them a direct, affordable travel option.
Recognising Chandrapur's growing industrial base, educational institutions, religious sites, and tourism potential, Mungantiwar had persistently pressed the need for improved railway connectivity with the Centre. His consistent follow-up is credited with securing the ministry's nod for the new service.
