Mumbai’s suburban railway system, the backbone of daily commuting for millions, is poised for a significant upgrade with the planned addition of 2,856 air-conditioned coaches. Equivalent to 238 twelve-car trains, the project is expected to transform the travel experience in one of the world’s busiest suburban rail networks.
The state cabinet has approved ₹4,826 crore as part of its commitment to the ₹21,000-crore Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) Phases 3 and 3A. Officials confirmed that the funding will be equally shared between the Railway Board and the state government, ensuring that the project progresses without external borrowings. This financial structure will allow the procurement and manufacturing of rakes under the Centre’s Make-in-India framework, giving a boost to domestic production. The proposal will now move to the Union cabinet for final clearance. Civic and transport experts note that the decision to avoid foreign loans not only strengthens India’s industrial base but also keeps the project aligned with national security and procurement guidelines. By excluding external funding, the government has ensured that contracts can adhere to restrictions on firms from neighbouring countries, while also avoiding the limitations often imposed by multilateral lenders.
Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC), the implementing agency, will oversee the tendering and manufacturing process. According to officials, bids will be floated within this month, with a bidder expected to be finalised in six months. Manufacturing of the coaches is likely to take two years, with the first prototype rake projected for delivery in 2028. A six-month trial phase will precede bulk production, ensuring safety and reliability before large-scale rollout. The expansion is expected to ease crowding and improve comfort levels for daily commuters, who have long demanded more air-conditioned services. The city currently operates limited AC trains, which, despite higher fares, have steadily grown in popularity. With extreme weather conditions, rising pollution levels, and the need for energy-efficient travel, experts suggest that the move towards a modern AC fleet is a step towards building a more sustainable and commuter-friendly urban mobility system.
In addition to the coach procurement, the state government has also committed to funding capacity enhancement projects under MUTP Phase 3B, along with improvements to the Pune-Lonavala suburban corridor. These combined efforts reflect a broader strategy to modernise railway infrastructure and align Mumbai’s public transport system with global standards. While challenges remain in balancing affordability with the cost of AC services, officials believe the upgrade will mark a turning point for the city’s rail network, signalling a shift towards cleaner, safer, and more inclusive commuting in the years ahead.
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