August 20, 2025: The Maharashtra Government on Tuesday approved the purchase of 268 fully air-conditioned (AC) suburban trains for Mumbai, in what is being described as the largest single addition of modern rolling stock to the city’s congested rail network. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Cabinet’s infrastructure committee, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He confirmed that fares for the AC services would remain the same as those of existing non-AC locals.
Hailing the move as a “turning point” for Mumbai’s lifeline, Fadnavis said the new trains would feature closed doors, automatic systems, and metro-style amenities, gradually replacing the ageing, doorless fleet operating on the Western and Central lines. “This is about commuter safety, comfort and speed. Most importantly, there will be no change in ticket fares,” he said, adding that procurement would begin once the Centre grants approval.
Currently, Mumbai operates a small number of AC trains, but higher fares and operational constraints have hindered their wider adoption. Officials stated that with 268 trains sanctioned under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project Phases 3 and 3A, the suburban system would be transformed in phases over the coming years. “The aim is to make air-conditioned travel the norm rather than the exception, while reducing overcrowding and accidents,” Fadnavis remarked.
The Cabinet also cleared several other major transport and infrastructure projects. These include Metro Line 11, a 16-km underground corridor linking Wadala Depot to Gateway of India via Horniman Circle. The Rs 24,000-crore project will be funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Approval was also given for a 25-km elevated road connecting Thane with the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
In Pune, construction of additional rail lines and new Metro stations was sanctioned, while Nagpur secured approval for a ring road and a new township, which Fadnavis described as “a new chapter in the city’s growth”.
Source: The Indian Express
