Railways Approve Rs 527 Billion Boost for Mumbai Suburban Rail
29 Jul 2025 CW Team
Mumbai’s suburban railway network is set for a transformational upgrade, with the Ministry of Railways sanctioning projects worth Rs 527.24 billion under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) schemes. These extensive initiatives aim to significantly enhance connectivity and meet the growing demands of the city’s daily commuters.
The funding breakdown includes Rs 80.87 billion for MUTP-II, Rs 109.47 billion for MUTP-III, and Rs 336.9 billion for MUTP-IIIA.
Major Corridors and Key Developments
Under MUTP-III, core works will reshape several critical sections of the network, including the Panvel–Karjat line development, quadrupling of the Virar–Dahanu corridor, construction of the Airoli–Kalwa Elevated Corridor, implementation of trespass control measures, and acquisition of new rolling stock.
These efforts complement ongoing works on the fifth and sixth lines between Borivali and Virar, and the third and fourth lines between Kalyan and Badlapur. All projects are being implemented by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation Ltd (MRVC Ltd), a joint venture between the Ministry of Railways and the Government of Maharashtra with equal cost sharing.
Multi-Tracking and Capacity Expansion
Significant multi-tracking has also been sanctioned across key corridors:
- Churchgate–Virar: Expansion includes four lines between Churchgate and Mumbai Central, eight lines from Mumbai Central to Borivali, and six lines between Borivali and Virar.
- CSMT–Panvel: Fifth and sixth lines between CSMT and Kurla have been approved, with progress underway on the Kurla–Parel section. Two additional lines are already operational on the CSMT–Kurla–Vasai–Panvel route.
Fleet Modernisation and Integration
To boost capacity, 238 new 12-car trains have been approved under MUTP-III and IIIA, representing a Rs 192.93 billion investment in modern rolling stock.
Additionally, the Ministry is supporting better intermodal integration, working closely with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Andheri East and Ghatkopar stations have already been integrated with nearby metro lines, enabling smoother transitions for passengers.