The Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has proposed an ambitious ₹15,000 crore plan to expand the city’s suburban railway network. The project, part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) Phase 3B, aims to separate local train operations from long-distance and freight traffic, ensuring smoother services for daily commuters.
Key Corridors Identified
According to officials, three new corridors are central to the plan:
- Kalyan–Kasara
- Kalyan–Karjat
- Panvel–Vasai (60 km dedicated suburban corridor)
Currently, the Panvel–Vasai stretch serves both long-distance and MEMU trains. Under the new proposal, this corridor will be reserved exclusively for suburban services, easing congestion and improving efficiency.
Objective: Segregation of Services
A senior rail official explained that the core objective of MUTP 3B is 100% segregation of mainline and suburban services. With the new corridors, local train operations will become more reliable, punctual, and frequent, directly benefiting millions of passengers across rapidly growing urban regions like Panvel, Navi Mumbai, Vasai-Virar, and Kalyan.
Supporting Infrastructure Plans
In addition to the three new corridors, MRVC has also proposed two elevated flyovers from Vasai:
- One towards Virar
- Another towards Borivali
These flyovers are expected to streamline rail traffic flow, reducing bottlenecks and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
Awaiting Government Clearance
The proposal has already been submitted to the Maharashtra government and is awaiting clearance. Once approved, the expansion will mark a significant milestone in Mumbai’s rail modernization efforts and set the stage for future urban mobility solutions.
Benefits for Commuters
The project is designed to:
- Decongest heavily burdened suburban rail lines
- Improve punctuality and reduce delays
- Enhance the overall commuter experience
- Support the growing passenger demand in rapidly urbanizing regions
With this development, Mumbai’s rail network will be better equipped to handle rising demand while improving reliability and safety for suburban passengers.
Summary:
The Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has proposed a ₹15,000 crore expansion under MUTP Phase 3B to ease suburban congestion. The plan includes new corridors along Kalyan–Kasara, Kalyan–Karjat, and Panvel–Vasai, along with two elevated flyovers from Vasai. Once approved, the project will decongest existing lines, improve punctuality, and significantly enhance Mumbai’s suburban rail services.
