Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said the expansion of coaching terminals and infrastructure would significantly improve the railway network and nationwide connectivity
Central Railway currently operates 1,820 suburban train services daily in Mumbai. Representational Pic/File
The Central Railway on Saturday announced a major plan to expand coaching terminals in Mumbai as part of a nationwide effort to double train-handling capacity in major cities by 2030, an official statement said.
The move aims to meet rising passenger demand and reduce congestion.
Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw said the expansion of coaching terminals and infrastructure would significantly improve the railway network and nationwide connectivity.
Major Upgrades for Mumbai Suburban Services
Central Railway currently operates 1,820 suburban train services daily in Mumbai. After the completion of the planned works, the network is expected to support an additional 584 suburban services.
Key projects include the extension of platforms at 34 stations to accommodate 15-coach trains on the CSMT-Kalyan fast corridor, remodelling of Kalyan yard, construction of fifth and sixth lines between Parel and Kurla, and the addition of third and fourth lines on the Kalyan-Kasara and Kalyan-Karjat routes.
Platform reconstruction work is also planned at Panvel, along with the development of a new suburban corridor between Karjat and Panvel.
Expansion of Mail and Express train capacity
At present, Central Railway handles 82 originating Mail and Express trains from Mumbai. The expansion is expected to allow an additional 30 primary-maintained trains and 38 platform-returned trains.
Comprehensive infrastructure upgrades planned
To achieve the capacity expansion, Central Railway will augment existing terminals with additional platforms, stabling lines, pit lines and improved shunting facilities. New terminals will also be developed in and around urban areas.
Maintenance infrastructure, including mega coaching complexes, will be strengthened. Sectional capacity will be enhanced through traffic facility works, signalling upgrades and multitracking to handle increased train movement.
While upgrading terminals, nearby stations will also be developed to ensure balanced capacity across the network.
Focus on suburban and long-distance trains
The expansion plan will cover both suburban and non-suburban services, keeping in mind the different requirements of each. A comprehensive plan covering 48 major cities across the country is currently under consideration.
Capacity will be increased progressively over the next five years, with actions classified into immediate, short-term and long-term measures to ensure early benefits for passengers.
New mega coaching terminals
Several new mega coaching terminals are under development to support the increased capacity including the following-
Panvel-Kalamboli: Five platforms at Panvel, with pit lines, stabling lines, sick lines and transfer lines at Kalamboli.
Kalyan: Six platforms with additional pit lines and sick lines; relocation of the goods yard is underway.
Parel: A phased project with new platforms, stabling lines, pit lines and sick lines.
Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (Terminal 2): Four platforms, pit lines, stabling lines, shunting necks and sick sidings; work is being processed.
Identified cities under Central Railway
Under Central Railway, Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur have been identified for capacity enhancement as part of the national plan.
Officials said the expansion will help reduce congestion, improve punctuality and offer a better travel experience for passengers.
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