A transformative public art initiative is set to breathe new life into Mumbai’s bustling suburban railway network this October. The project, aptly named “Hamara Station Hamari Shaan” (HSHS), aims to revitalise 29 key railway stations across the Western Railway (WR) and Central Railway (CR) lines. Spearheaded by a non-governmental organisation, this ambitious endeavour seeks to engage over 20,000 volunteers in a citywide effort to enhance the visual appeal of one of the world’s busiest rail networks.
The initiative covers 16 stations along the WR corridor, stretching from Churchgate to Dahisar, and 13 stations on the CR and Harbour Line, ranging from CST to Kalyan. The selection of stations reflects the organisers’ intent to bring art to the daily lives of millions of commuters, enriching their experience with vibrant and culturally significant designs.
In the lead-up to the project’s launch, teams from Project Mumbai, in collaboration with railway officials, have undertaken meticulous planning to ensure the success of the initiative. Over the past 20 days, these teams have identified paintable areas, measured key locations, and begun conceptualising designs that will be tailored to each station. The artistic renderings will feature a blend of local art, cultural motifs, and bright, engaging colours, all carefully chosen to resonate with the diverse communities that the suburban railway serves. This initiative is not just an aesthetic upgrade; it represents a broader effort to reclaim public spaces and instil a sense of pride and ownership among Mumbai’s residents. By involving a large volunteer base, “Hamara Station Hamari Shaan” taps into the collective energy and creativity of the city, making it a true community-driven project.
The revitalisation of these stations is expected to have a significant impact on the daily commute of millions, offering them a more pleasant and visually stimulating environment. As Mumbai’s suburban railway network continues to be the lifeline of the city, this initiative could set a precedent for similar projects across the country, blending functional infrastructure with artistic expression to create spaces that are both utilitarian and uplifting. “HSHS will transform into a cultural hub from September when hundreds of citizens school children, corporate employees, and social welfare organisations come together to beautify their city and foster a sense of ownership in their neighbourhoods,” said Shishir Joshi, Founder and CEO of Project Mumbai. To encourage widespread participation, Project Mumbai has established WhatsApp groups for each station, allowing residents to join efforts near them Manthan K Mehta
