As Mumbai’s local trains approach a century of service in February 2025, calls for a grand celebration are growing louder. These trains, often referred to as the “lifeline of Mumbai,” have not only transformed the city’s public transportation but also played a critical role in shaping its commercial identity.
Retired railway officials, engineers, and enthusiasts are rallying support for a large-scale commemoration, appealing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to honour this landmark occasion. The history of Mumbai’s suburban railway system is a testament to Indian Railways’ pioneering spirit. On 3rd February 1925, the first electric train in India embarked on its journey from Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) to Kurla, spanning a distance of 16 kilometres.
This momentous event marked India’s entry into the age of electric traction, positioning the country as a leader in railway innovation within the British Empire. The electrification of the Mumbai railway network was a monumental feat, with the initial power supply arrangements being a collaborative effort involving the Tatas and the Great Indian Peninsula Railway (GIPR). The GIPR even established its own power-generating plant at Thakurli. Over the decades, Mumbai’s local trains have undergone significant technological advancements, evolving from wooden-bodied coaches to sleek, stainless steel rakes. The conversion from 1500V DC to 25kV AC systems, the introduction of energy-efficient three-phase traction technology, and the implementation of the Auxiliary Warning System have all contributed to making the network one of the most advanced in the world.
The suburban railway system is the backbone of Mumbai’s daily commute, facilitating the movement of millions across the city. As the centenary of the first electric train approaches, former officials and railway enthusiasts are keen to see this milestone celebrated with the grandeur it deserves. According to a former Managing Director of the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC), who was instrumental in modernising the network, the significance of this occasion cannot be overstated. He highlighted the numerous upgrades the system has seen, including the introduction of air-conditioned trains, and emphasised the need to honour the legacy of Mumbai’s local trains.
India is on the cusp of achieving 100 per cent electrification of its railway network, with 95 per cent already completed. This progress underscores the importance of the upcoming centenary, not just for Mumbai but for the entire nation. As the city gears up to celebrate 100 years of its electric local trains, the voices advocating for a grand event are growing stronger.
