The Central Railway has announced a significant upgrade for Thane railway station, aiming to ease the daily commute of over 500,000 passengers. By December 2025, Platforms 2, 3, and 4 will be extended to accommodate 15-coach local trains, a marked improvement over the current 12-coach services. This expansion is expected to enhance passenger comfort, safety, and boarding efficiency, particularly during peak hours in Mumbai’s suburban rail network.
Thane, a crucial interchange connecting Mumbai with Karjat and Kasara, has long struggled with overcrowding. Daily commuters often face packed trains, resulting in slow boarding and alighting. According to a senior railway official, the platform extension will allow longer trains to operate without disruptions, easing congestion and improving crowd management during busy periods. Under the plan, Platform 2 will be widened by 16.15 metres, while Platforms 3 and 4 will be lengthened by up to 40 metres. Modular designs will ensure the project is completed efficiently without hindering ongoing train operations. Passenger safety and accessibility have been prioritised, with clear pathways and upgraded facilities to support smooth commuter movement.
“The new 15-coach trains will increase seating and standing capacity, reduce waiting times, and significantly improve the daily experience for office-goers, students, and regular travellers,” an official said. The expansion responds to repeated requests from resident and passenger associations, highlighting the urgent need for modernisation at one of India’s busiest suburban stations. Earlier upgrades, including the successful widening of Platform 5 in 2024, demonstrated the effectiveness of modular construction in handling large crowds safely. These efforts set the stage for the larger-scale expansion at Thane without compromising daily rail services. Similar projects are underway on the Western Railway, where additional coaches and track improvements are planned to accommodate rising commuter demand.
Beyond operational benefits, the expansion has wider social and economic implications. Reducing overcrowding improves productivity by lowering commute stress and travel times while supporting nearby businesses. Promoting suburban rail usage over road transport aligns with sustainable urban mobility objectives by decreasing vehicular emissions and congestion in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Once completed, Thane station will be fully equipped for high-capacity trains, reinforcing Indian Railways’ vision of a modern, commuter-focused network. The upgrades signal a move towards safer, more efficient, and inclusive urban transport, ensuring Mumbai’s suburban railway continues to meet the needs of a growing population.
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