In a significant upgrade for India’s busiest suburban rail network, Indian Railways has announced plans to introduce Non-AC local trainsets equipped with Automatic Door Closure systems for the Mumbai suburban railway. The move aims to enhance passenger safety while improving travel comfort for millions of daily commuters.
The announcement was made by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during the ongoing Parliament session on in a written reply to questions raised by Lok Sabha MPs Varsha Eknath Gaikwad and Sanjay Dina Patil.
Two Non-AC EMU Rakes to Be Built by ICF Chennai
According to the minister, two Non-AC EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) rakes with Automatic Door Closure will be developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai. These new-generation suburban coaches will come equipped with:
- Automatic doors
- Vestibules
- Roof-mounted ventilation units
- Louvred doors for improved air circulation
This design is expected to improve airflow and safety without transitioning fully to air-conditioned services, keeping fares affordable for the masses.
Existing Automatic Door Services and Massive Fleet Expansion
Currently, 17 AC EMU rakes with automatic door systems are already operational across the Mumbai suburban network, which is jointly managed by Central Railway and Western Railway. Together, they operate over 3,000 local services daily, forming the backbone of Mumbai’s public transport system.
In a major capacity expansion push, the Ministry of Railways has also sanctioned 238 new rakes of 12 coaches each for the Mumbai suburban network under the MUTP-III and MUTP-IIIA projects. These rakes will be procured at a total estimated cost of Rs 19,293 crore.
“The process for procurement of these rakes has already been taken up,” the minister confirmed.
12 to 15 Coach Expansion on Key Central Railway Route
In addition to new rakes, Indian Railways has approved remodelling work to increase train length from 12 to 15 coaches on the busy CSMT–Kalyan section of Central Railway. This move is expected to significantly ease peak-hour congestion and boost passenger carrying capacity.
With safety upgrades, additional rakes, and longer trains, the latest announcements reflect a multi-pronged strategy to modernise Mumbai’s suburban rail system and enhance everyday commuting for millions.
