Central Railway just went ahead and tore down the last remaining British-era DC underslung portal at Vidyavihar Station in Mumbai. This 100-year-old structure was holding up the overhead electric wires that power the trains, but it was time for it to go. On May 24, the big metal framework was removed and replaced with a more modern three-span overlap system, as per a statement from CR.
The old portals, which were called ‘underslung’ because the wires hung below the main structure, were a thing of the past. They were part of the early Direct Current (DC) railway electrification system introduced during the British rule. While they were once a vital part of Mumbai’s suburban railway network, they had become outdated over time.
With this dismantling, Central Railway is making strides in modernizing the railway infrastructure in Mumbai. The new three-span overlap system will enhance the reliability and maintenance of the overhead railway equipment, ensuring smoother operations for the trains.
The project to remove these old portals began back in 2012, and now, with the final dismantling at Vidyavihar Station, all 22 such portals along the CSMT–Kalyan suburban main line have been successfully taken down. This marks a significant step forward in the efforts to upgrade the railway network in Mumbai.
The work was carried out meticulously by the Mumbai Division’s TRD team, ensuring minimal disruption to train services. The removal of the old British-era portals signifies the end of an era and the beginning of a more advanced railway system in the city.
Central Railway officials emphasized the importance of safety, efficiency, and modern infrastructure in this process. The dedication shown by the Mumbai Division’s TRD team in completing this project highlights Central Railway’s commitment to improving the railway network for the benefit of passengers and the city as a whole.
So, there you have it – the last of the old British-era DC underslung portals has been replaced, making way for a more efficient and reliable railway system in Mumbai. It’s all about embracing the future and leaving the past behind, one portal at a time.
