The Union Ministry of Railways has directed the Central and Western Railway zones to conduct detailed surveys and feasibility studies to expand the suburban rail network within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This initiative responds to the rapid population growth, increasing traffic, and expanding infrastructure across Mumbai’s extended metropolitan area.
One of the key projects under consideration is a new 4-kilometre suburban rail line connecting Khandeshwar to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), currently under construction. This link is expected to provide faster and more affordable access for both daily commuters and air travellers, significantly improving connectivity between Mumbai city and the airport.
On the Western Railway side, authorities are surveying a new corridor stretching from Dahanu to Vadhavan Port in Palghar. Vadhavan is poised to become India’s largest port, and suburban rail connectivity will support efficient freight movement and the development of adjacent logistics hubs.
The Central Railway has proposed extending the Kalyan-Asangaon suburban corridor by 32 kilometres to enhance connectivity in the Thane-Nashik region. Estimated to cost INR 1,150 crore, this extension aims to ease congestion on existing tracks and facilitate smoother operation of both long-distance and suburban trains. Furthermore, construction is underway to add a third line from Panvel to Roha, improving links on the vital Konkan route.
Officials highlight that these new rail projects are essential to keep pace with MMR’s expansion. With the emergence of new airports, ports, and industrial zones, demand for daily transportation continues to rise rapidly. Expanding the suburban rail network offers an efficient solution to reduce road congestion and make commuting faster and safer.
Notably, this marks the first instance where direct suburban rail connectivity to an international airport is being considered in India—a model that could be replicated in other urban regions facing transport integration challenges.
Source: Prop News Time
