September 8, 2025: The Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has floated a tender for the procurement and long-term maintenance of 2,856 Vande Metro air-conditioned local train coaches to boost capacity on the suburban rail network. The move is part of Indian Railways’ wider plan to modernize Mumbai’s local services with advanced rolling stock and improved commuter experience.
The tender covers the “procurement cum maintenance of 2,856 cars in configuration of 12/15/18-Car Air-Conditioned Vande Metro (Suburban) Broad Gauge Rakes with comprehensive maintenance for 35 years, including setting up of two new maintenance depots under MUTP-III and MUTP-3A,” MRVC said in its statement.
Earlier this year, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw underlined the importance of infrastructure upgrades in expanding Mumbai’s suburban services. “Projects worth nearly Rs 17,000 crore, covering more than 300 kilometers of new lines, are currently underway at a rapid pace. These initiatives aim to decongest existing lines, improve service frequency, and cater to the ever-growing demand of Mumbai’s suburban commuters,” he said.
The minister also confirmed Parliament approval for the procurement of 238 air-conditioned trains dedicated to Mumbai’s network. “I was in Maharashtra, and during discussions with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis regarding improvements in Mumbai local trains, this matter was raised. We are pleased to announce that the procurement of 238 new local trains has finally been approved,” Vaishnaw said.
In April, the Central Railway introduced 14 new AC services on the Main Line. These trains replaced non-AC services but kept the overall daily service count above 1,800. The addition of AC rakes has not only provided safer and more comfortable travel but also made suburban commuting economical for passengers.
Source: The Indian Express
