Central Railway Advances Mumbai Track Upgrades: 65 km Replaced Since April

The Central Railway has made significant strides in its Mumbai track replacement project, installing 65 km of new tracks since April 2024. The initiative aims to replace 126 km of ageing tracks by April 2025, focusing on critical routes such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to Kalyan, Kalyan to Lonavala, Kalyan to Igatpuri, and the Panvel corridor. These routes collectively accommodate 1,810 daily local trains and 250–300 mail and express trains, making the upgrades essential for safe and efficient operations.

Mumbai’s humid coastal climate accelerates track wear, requiring frequent maintenance and lifecycle-based replacements. The replacement work is carried out during short operational intervals known as “blocks,” during which teams of 30 railway officials use specialised equipment to replace 200–600 meters of track at a time. The process involves removing old rails and installing, welding, and aligning new ones to meet operational standards.

This project is part of Indian Railways’ larger efforts to modernise infrastructure and ensure long-term safety and efficiency. With nearly 97% of India’s broad gauge network electrified, the upgrades highlight the railways’ commitment to sustainability and modernisation.

Source: Construction World

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