Mumbai’s suburban railway network is set for a substantial expansion over the next four to five years, with plans to introduce 584 additional services on Central Railway (CR) and 165 on Western Railway (WR) once ongoing infrastructure upgrades are completed. Officials say the move will improve passenger experience by reducing overcrowding and enhancing connectivity across the city’s growing suburban regions.
In addition to suburban services, WR will add 65 long-distance trains from Mumbai, while existing services will be augmented by 70 coaches daily. CR plans to introduce 30 new outstation trains. Infrastructure upgrades include the Parel–Kurla 5th and 6th line, Kurla deck works for Harbour line expansion, and the Kalyan–Kasara 3rd and 4th line projects. These initiatives aim to segregate suburban and mainline traffic, optimising operational capacity for commuters. “The expansion will release additional suburban train capacity and improve overall service efficiency,” a senior CR official said. He added that 20 new train services will commence following the completion of the 6th line extension to Borivli, along with new AC local trains, depending on rake availability. Currently, WR operates 1,406 suburban services daily using 116 rakes and manages 44 long-distance trains originating from Mumbai.
Key projects include the Harbour line extension from Goregaon to Borivli and platform lengthening on the Bandra–Andheri section to accommodate 15-car trains. The Naigaon–Juichandra double chord line, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 176 crore, will enable direct connectivity to the Konkan Railway without locomotive reversal at Vasai Road, easing travel for passengers heading towards Konkan, Goa, and beyond. Phase I of the 6th line project on the Kandivli–Borivli stretch is nearing completion and expected to be operational by January 2026. Terminal expansions, along with enhanced maintenance and stabling infrastructure, are planned to support capacity augmentation.
Urban planners note that these improvements are crucial not only for managing Mumbai’s dense commuter traffic but also for fostering sustainable urban mobility. “Investments in suburban railway infrastructure directly contribute to reduced road congestion and lower urban emissions,” an industry expert said. Authorities emphasise that these measures will provide long-term resilience to the city’s transport network while enhancing commuter safety and convenience.
Mumbai To Add 584 CR And 165 WR Suburban Train Services Soon
