Mumbai local train network expands as WR completes work on Kandivali-Borivali route, to be operational from Monday

Western Railway on Sunday successfully commissioned the newly constructed 5th and 6th Broad Gauge lines between Kandivali and Borivali, marking a major infrastructure milestone for Mumbai’s suburban railway system.

The 3.21-kilometre section was authorised for public carriage of passengers and freight by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Western Circle, after a detailed inspection and successful speed trials, an official statement said.

With the final stretch, the first phase of the Mumbai Central-Borivali 6th Line project now stands fully completed.

"A 30-day execution window was planned for the execution of this work from December 18, 2025 to January 17, 2026 during which the existing 5th line also remained suspended between Kandivali and Goregaon stations," officials said.

The commissioning of the 6th Line involved extensive permanent way and structural

The CRS conducted inspections by motor trolley and on foot, followed by speed trials using electric locomotives on both lines. Trains touched speeds of 85 kmph on the 5th line and 107 kmph on the 6th line during testing, the official statement said.

Following compliance with safety norms under the Railways Act, the section has been authorised for regular operations at -

- 70 kmph on the new 5th line (Down)

- 80 kmph on the new 6th line (UP)

- 15 kmph on loop lines with a maximum axle load of 23 tonnes.

Challenging construction in dense urban area

The project was executed within a tight 30-day window from December 18, 2025 to January 17, 2026. During this period, the existing 5th line between Kandivali and Goregaon was temporarily suspended to facilitate major engineering works.

Construction posed significant challenges due to extremely limited space and proximity to active railway lines. Most earthwork and material movement had to be carried out during night blocks and shutdown periods.

Extensive engineering and track works

Key infrastructure works included -

- Major slewing of the existing 5th line

- Installation of 19 new points and crossings

- Dismantling of 18 old points and crossings

- Installation of 13 Switch Expansion Joints (SEJs)

"Bridge works included four minor bridges and one major bridge. A 36-hour mega block was utilised to complete critical re-girdering work on Major Bridge No. 61," the statement said.

Advanced signalling and OHE systems

A major highlight was the commissioning of Mumbai Suburban’s largest Electronic Interlocking (EI) system at Borivali, replacing the old relay-based system.

The new Siemens Westrace MK-II EI system manages hundreds of routes, signals and points using modern digital control, high-resolution display units, advanced monitoring systems and robust power backup.

Signalling upgrades were also carried out at Kandivali station, enhancing operational safety on both the 5th and 6th lines.

Extensive Overhead Equipment (OHE) work was completed, including foundation removal, mast erection, wiring, neutral section shifting, and commissioning of power supply systems.

Operational benefits for commuters

The newly commissioned 6th line will serve as a dedicated corridor for long-distance and non-suburban trains. This will segregate suburban and mail/express traffic, reduce congestion, improve punctuality and significantly enhance the daily travel experience for millions of commuters in Mumbai.

Railway officials said the project stands as a benchmark for speed, coordination and technical excellence in one of the busiest suburban rail networks in the world.