Local train in Delhi - transfer between NDLS & DLI

Hi All:

I just looked up an old post of mine, and see that there was no response to it since 2011, possibly because it is in Delhi forum and not IR. So I am reiterating the question once again, as mentioned in https://www.indiamike.com/india/delh...2/#post1217269

To transfer from New Delhi station (NDLS) to Old Delhi (DLI) with luggage and kids, is it a good idea to avail this EMU service in the evening time on a Saturday?

• Is it safe?
• How crowded are these trains?

I am asking this with specific respect to the following local trains, but general response is welcome too.

Train# Train name // Board Start Std delay // Arrive At Std delay
============================== ===========
64061 Palwal Delhi EMU // NDLS 19:02 +25 // DLI* 19:20 +31
64443 Ghaziabad - Old Delhi EMU // NDLS 19:35 +1 // DLI* 20:00 +6
* Source: here

I would have definitely chosen Metro had it not been for the luggage we would have. I understand Metro has luggage restrictions and evening would be peak hour too.

I have never taken an EMU (or an OSTRICH) but they never looked crowded in the Bombay Suburban sense of the word. And Saturday isn't a real weekday any longer.

And "Is it safe?" - this is a question one asks in the US when what is really meant is: "Does the route pass through an area with a predominantly African-American population".

On a more serious note Indracal, while they may well be safe, most delhiites do not take these trains. They are used by workers or traders living in nearby towns who are interested in coming to Delhi for the day and return in the evening. I've seen them passing by, and they are usually quite crowded and not too clean. If that works for you, go for it. Else, I'd recommend a cab.