Mumbai’s suburban railway network is set to undergo one of its largest infrastructure expansions in recent years, with projects spanning Central and Western Railways worth over INR 18,000 crore. Covering more than 400 kilometres of track, these upgrades are designed to ease congestion, improve punctuality, and meet the growing demand from millions of daily commuters. Officials say the developments will also enhance freight operations, contributing to broader economic benefits for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The Central Railway network is witnessing multiple critical projects. The CSMT-Kurla 5th and 6th line project under MUTP-II, covering 17.5 track kilometres, aims to reduce delays and improve operational efficiency. Similarly, the Panvel-Karjat suburban corridor under MUTP-III will introduce a new commuter link, cutting travel time and offering an alternate route to Karjat. Additional projects, including Kalyan-Asangaon 4th line and Kalyan-Badlapur 3rd & 4th line expansions, will increase track capacity, reduce overcrowding, and support future passenger and freight growth. Other Central Railway initiatives include the Kalyan-Kasara 3rd line and Asangaon-Kasara 4th line projects, both expected to enhance operational flexibility, decrease disruption risks, and improve northern suburban connectivity. Elevated corridors such as the Airoli-Kalva link and double chord lines like Nilaje-Kopar aim to reduce congestion, cut travel times, and improve accessibility for daily commuters. The Badlapur-Karjat 3rd & 4th line project also stands out, expected to generate significant freight traffic, reduce diesel consumption by 41 lakh litres annually, save logistics costs of approximately INR 46 crore, and cut 2 crore kilograms of CO₂ emissions each year.
Western Railway is equally set for transformation. Projects like the Mumbai Central-Borivali 6th line and Borivali-Virar 5th & 6th lines will increase suburban track capacity, ease congestion, and separate suburban and mainline operations. The Harbour line extension from Goregaon to Borivali will provide direct connectivity to CSMT, improve commuter experience, and reduce the need for train transfers. The Virar-Dahanu 3rd & 4th line expansion will further enhance travel for commuters from northern districts, facilitating smoother and faster suburban services. Industry experts emphasise that these upgrades are critical for creating a sustainable, efficient, and zero-carbon suburban rail network. “Expanding capacity while ensuring operational efficiency will significantly improve urban mobility and reduce the environmental footprint of daily commuting,” an official noted.
As Mumbai continues to expand, these projects promise safer, faster, and more reliable rail services, supporting equitable access to transportation while contributing to economic growth and environmental sustainability across the metropolitan region.
Mumbai Suburban Rail Network To Expand With Projects Worth Eighteen Thousand Crore
