Central Railway has finalised plans for a fourth rail line between Karjat and Panvel.
The 29-kilometre stretch, with an estimated cost of ₹491 crore, aims to bolster suburban connectivity and alleviate congestion on this crucial corridor. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Panvel–Karjat (Chowk) fourth line was submitted to the Railway Board on April 7. This development is poised to significantly improve access to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, particularly for travellers from Pune and surrounding regions.
The Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) is concurrently constructing two lines between Panvel and Karjat, targeted for completion in December 2025, exclusively for suburban use. The addition of the fourth line will further enhance the corridor’s capacity, facilitating smoother transit for both passengers and freight. The existing line, primarily serving goods and select long-distance passenger trains, will be doubled to boost overall capacity. This expansion is expected to act as a catalyst for the rapidly developing areas of Panvel, Karjat, and the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA).
The suburban corridor connecting Panvel and Karjat features some of the suburban system’s longest tunnels and bridges. The Panvel–Karjat railway project, under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project 3 (MUTP-3), is poised to be a game-changer. Central Railway has already prepared three local trains for operations on the new corridor. The corridor spans 29.6 km, connecting Panvel to Karjat, and includes five stations. The project features three tunnels with a total length of 3,100 meters, including the Wavrely Tunnel, which spans 2.6 kilometers. A total of 47 bridges are planned, with 35 completed as of late 2024, including six major and 29 minor bridges. Additionally, four Road Over Bridges (ROBs) have been constructed at key locations such as Mohape and Kirawali. The Pune Expressway Underpass is also nearing completion.
Upon completion, the Panvel-Karjat corridor is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Karjat, cutting the journey duration by approximately 30 minutes compared to the existing route via Kalyan. The improved connectivity will provide a direct suburban rail link between Mumbai and Karjat via Panvel, helping alleviate congestion and streamline passenger movement. The project is also expected to boost economic growth by fostering urban development, increasing property values, and attracting new investments in the surrounding areas. The railway corridor is expected to be fully operational by December 2025, integrating into Mumbai’s rapidly expanding suburban railway network. Upon completion, it is anticipated to enhance regional transport efficiency and serve as a critical link for daily commuters in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
This infrastructure development aligns with broader goals of creating sustainable, eco-friendly, and equitable urban environments. By improving public transportation options and reducing reliance on private vehicles, the project contributes to efforts aimed at achieving zero net carbon emissions and promoting sustainable urban growth. s the project progresses, it is expected to serve as a model for future infrastructure initiatives, demonstrating the potential of integrated transport solutions in fostering inclusive and sustainable urban development.
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