Konkan Railway Launches 'Car On Train' Service For Ganeshotsav Pilgrims: All You Need To Know

Ahead of the upcoming Ganeshotsav celebrations, Konkan Railway has launched a special 'Car on Train' service to assist pilgrims traveling to the Konkan region. This new initiative allows passengers to transport their vehicles using the Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) system, a method similar to truck transport. The service is aimed at helping devotees avoid long road travel while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Konkan landscape.

Passengers availing this facility are required to report to designated stations at least three hours before departure to complete necessary paperwork. The cost for vehicle transportation under this service is ₹7,875. Along with the vehicle, a maximum of three passengers can travel, either in an AC coach or the SLR (Seating-cum-Luggage Rake) compartment.

As part of preparations for the festive season, Konkan Railway has also announced the launch of several Ganeshotsav Special trains. Booking for these special trains will commence on July 25, 2025, through Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters, the IRCTC website, and other online platforms. Travelers can find detailed information about routes, halts, and timings on www.enquiry.indianrail.gov.in.

Here is the list of special train services announced:

01152 Sawantwadi Road - Mumbai CSMT Special (Daily)

01172 Sawantwadi Road - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Special (Daily)

01154 Ratnagiri - Mumbai CSMT Special (Daily)

01104 Sawantwadi Road - Mumbai CSMT Special (Daily)

01168 Sawantwadi Road - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Special (Daily)

01166 Madgaon Jn. - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Special (Weekly)

01186 Madgaon Jn. - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Special (Weekly)

01130 Sawantwadi Road - Lokmanya Tilak (T) Special (Weekly)

01446 Ratnagiri - Pune Jn. Special (Weekly)

01448 Ratnagiri - Pune Jn. Special (Weekly)

This initiative aims to accommodate the expected surge in pilgrims traveling to the Konkan region. According to ABP Marathi, the Raigad district alone is home to over 1 lakh household Ganpati celebrations. When combined with Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg, the total number of visitors during Ganeshotsav could reach between 25 to 30 lakh this year.

With the Mumbai-Goa highway currently in poor condition, road travel has become increasingly difficult. The 'Car on Train' service offers a reliable alternative. Additionally, sea transport options have also been introduced, allowing travelers to reach Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg by boat in approximately 4 to 6 hours.

During Ganeshotsav, regular train trips on the route are expected to jump from 35-40 daily to nearly 300-320, making the Car on Train option a valuable addition to travel choices. While the full impact of the service will become clear as the festival approaches, it is already being seen as a major convenience for pilgrims heading to Konkan this festive season.