Mumbai is exploring a radical redesign of its suburban rail corridors as authorities consider converting key South Mumbai lines into underground tracks. The Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation Ltd (MRVC), in collaboration with Central and Western Railways, has launched a detailed feasibility study to modernise ageing surface-level lines, ease congestion, and integrate seamlessly with the city’s metro and bus networks.
The Churchgate–Mumbai Central corridor on Western Railway, spanning roughly 5 km, is under review for an underground alignment that would resurface near Mumbai Central. On the Central Railway side, a stretch between CSMT and Parel, approximately 8 km, is being assessed for potential underground, elevated, or hybrid configurations. Officials emphasise that all proposed alignments will remain strictly within railway-owned land to avoid private land acquisition, minimise displacement, and reduce project delays. “By exploring underground options, we aim to unlock operational efficiency while preserving critical urban spaces. Integrating these corridors with Metro lines and bus networks can significantly enhance commuter experience,” said a senior MRVC official. The study also considers a major interchange hub at Byculla to strengthen multimodal connectivity and improve passenger transfer across South Mumbai.
Strategic objectives of the project extend beyond improved mobility. By freeing up high-value railway land, the initiative opens avenues for redevelopment, public spaces, or sustainable urban projects. Technical assessments will compare twin-bore tunnels with multiple single-bore options, evaluate optimal station locations, and examine transition zones where underground lines may resurface. The study will also benchmark global best practices from cities like London, New York, and Tokyo to ensure long-term operational sustainability. Financial and operational viability remains central to decision-making. The feasibility analysis will quantify costs, benefits, and potential revenue streams, ensuring the project aligns with sustainable urban development goals. Experts from the civic and railway sectors emphasise eco-friendly construction, minimal tree felling, and energy-efficient design as priorities in the planning phase.
If implemented, the initiative could dramatically reduce surface-level congestion on the suburban rail network, offering faster, more reliable services for millions of daily commuters. With South Mumbai among the most densely populated urban zones in India, the shift to underground corridors may also preserve valuable urban land and improve overall city livability. This ambitious plan highlights Mumbai’s commitment to creating sustainable, integrated, and future-ready transport infrastructure. While detailed approvals, funding, and technical validation are still underway, the project promises to redefine commuting in South Mumbai and unlock significant urban potential.
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