Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has completed critical bridge and track works on the Kalyan–Badlapur section during a carefully planned night block. The operations, conducted between 2.15 am and 3.45 am on Saturday, mark an important milestone in the ongoing Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP 3A), which aims to modernise and decongest one of India’s busiest railway corridors.
The works included launching four girders for the upcoming road overbridge (ROB) near the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) area, five girders for the Ambernath foot overbridge (FOB), and dismantling two ageing footbridges at Ambernath and Badlapur. Executed within a short time frame, these precision operations were carried out during the non-operational window to minimise disruption to daily commuters. Officials said the completion of these works will pave the way for track quadrupling—adding two new lines to separate suburban and long-distance trains. Once complete, the project will not only shorten travel time but also improve punctuality and reduce congestion across the Central line, which currently handles over 12 lakh commuters daily.
According to project engineers, the ₹1,510-crore Kalyan–Badlapur rail expansion spans nearly 14 kilometres and will include a new suburban station at Chikhloli, strategically located between Ambernath and Badlapur. This additional stop is expected to enhance last-mile connectivity and distribute commuter load more evenly across the network. A senior MRVC official said the infrastructure upgrade is a “foundational step toward creating a dedicated suburban corridor that enhances efficiency, safety, and reliability for millions of passengers”. The new lines are part of a broader vision under MUTP 3A to modernise the Central Railway’s capacity, reducing operational conflicts between freight, express, and suburban services.
Transport experts believe the expansion will function as a “pressure valve” for Mumbai’s overcrowded suburban system. “The Kalyan–Badlapur stretch is a vital link for the expanding eastern suburbs. Additional tracks will ease train movement, reduce cancellations, and improve commuter experience,” said an urban transport analyst. The night-time execution reflects a shift in project planning practices—toward efficiency and commuter sensitivity. By scheduling heavy engineering works during non-peak hours, MRVC demonstrates a model of infrastructure development that balances urban progress with public convenience.
Once operational, the upgraded corridor is expected to significantly enhance regional mobility, support equitable access to jobs and services, and contribute to a more sustainable urban transport ecosystem—aligning with Mumbai’s long-term goal of creating a resilient, low-carbon city.
Mumbai Rail Network Strengthened As MRVC Completes Key Kalyan–Badlapur Works Overnight
