New Lines, Longer Platforms And More Trains: Mumbai Suburban Rail Network Set For Major Expansion

Mumbai’s heavily burdened suburban railway system is poised for its most ambitious expansion in recent years, with both Central Railway (CR) and Western Railway (WR) unveiling a comprehensive roadmap aimed at easing congestion and improving daily commutes for millions of passengers.

Spread over the next four to five years, the expansion plan includes the introduction of 749 additional suburban services, with 584 services on Central Railway and 165 services on Western Railway, to be rolled out in phases as critical infrastructure projects are completed.

The move is expected to significantly enhance carrying capacity, reduce overcrowding in peak hours and improve punctuality across Mumbai’s lifeline transport system.

Boost In Suburban And Long-Distance Services

In addition to suburban services, Western Railway is also preparing to strengthen Mumbai’s long-distance connectivity. As part of the expansion, 65 new long-distance trains are expected to originate from Mumbai in the near future, addressing rising intercity and interstate travel demand.

Passenger comfort will see immediate benefits as well, with existing suburban rakes being augmented with 70 additional coaches daily, allowing more passengers to travel during peak hours without excessive crowding.

Currently, Western Railway operates 1,406 suburban services daily using 116 rakes, while also managing 44 long-distance trains. The planned upgrades aim to future-proof this network against growing urban population pressures.

Major Infrastructure Upgrades On Central Railway

Central Railway’s expansion strategy focuses heavily on infrastructure segregation and line augmentation to improve operational efficiency. Among the key projects outlined are:

Parel–Kurla 5th and 6th line expansion, which will help separate suburban and mainline traffic

Construction of a new deck at Kurla to better integrate Harbour line operations

Kalyan–Kasara 3rd and 4th line enhancement, a crucial upgrade for long-distance and suburban traffic on the busy northeast corridor

Additionally, CR has planned 30 new outstation services, aimed at improving regional connectivity while freeing up suburban capacity.

These upgrades are expected to allow smoother movement of trains by reducing interference between suburban and mail/express services, a longstanding issue affecting punctuality.

Western Railway Focuses On Capacity And Connectivity

Western Railway’s roadmap includes several high-impact projects designed to unlock additional suburban capacity and improve connectivity beyond Mumbai.

One of the most significant initiatives is the extension of the Harbour line up to Borivali, which will offer an alternative travel option for commuters along the western corridor. Platform upgrades are also underway between Bandra and Andheri, enabling the operation of 15-car local trains, further increasing passenger capacity.

Another key project is the Naigaon–Juichandra double chord line, with an estimated cost of ₹176 crore. This line will allow seamless train movement towards Konkan and Goa, reducing congestion on existing routes.

Completion of the Kandivali–Borivali section of the 6th line is expected by January 2026, marking a major milestone in WR’s capacity expansion programme.

Segregation Of Traffic To Reduce Overcrowding

According to Western Railway chief spokesperson Vineet Abhishek, the larger objective of these projects is not just adding trains, but structurally improving how the suburban system functions.

“With the completion of various infrastructure works, suburban traffic will be segregated from mainline traffic. This will release additional capacity for suburban operations and significantly reduce overcrowding,” he said.

Railway officials also emphasised that future expansion will continue through terminal development, maintenance facility upgrades and additional stabling infrastructure, ensuring that increased services can be sustained efficiently.

A Long-Term Relief For Mumbai Commuters

Once fully implemented, the expansion plan is expected to transform Mumbai’s suburban railway landscape, offering shorter wait times, less packed coaches and improved travel reliability. For a city where millions rely on local trains every day, these upgrades could mark a decisive shift toward a safer, more comfortable and resilient public transport system.

As infrastructure work progresses, commuters can expect gradual but visible improvements—bringing long-awaited relief to Mumbai’s crowded railway corridors.