Western Railway (WR) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its suburban rail infrastructure with the initiation of work on the sixth line between Goregaon and Kandivali stations. This development is part of a broader expansion strategy aimed at alleviating congestion and improving commuter convenience across Mumbai’s busy rail network.
On the night of August 31 to September 1, 2024, WR successfully commissioned a new 1.4-kilometre Down local line at Malad station. This achievement was realised within a meticulously planned 10-hour block, which saw the collaborative efforts of the Engineering, Signal & Telecommunication (S&T), and Electrical departments. The operation involved around 400 workers and extensive use of heavy machinery, including JCBs, tamping machines, and tower wagons.
The successful completion of this new line was contingent upon a minor sanction from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) and a thorough inspection by the Senior Administrative Grade (SAG) committee. Following the commissioning, significant modifications were made to Malad station’s platform arrangements. Platform No. 1 has been repositioned to the right side for trains arriving from Churchgate. This strategic change allows passengers to board trains in either direction from the same platform, thus enhancing operational efficiency and passenger convenience.
Western Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer highlighted that the new line was part of a larger project involving the construction of a sixth line between Goregaon and Kandivali. Mega Blocks are being executed to facilitate the cutting and connecting of existing lines as part of this expansive infrastructure project. The completion of the new Down local line at Malad station not only marks a milestone in WR’s ongoing network expansion but also sets the stage for smoother and more reliable commuter services in the future.
