October 8, 2025: The upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), slated for inauguration on October 8, is accelerating major railway infrastructure projects across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), particularly on the Central Railway’s suburban network.
Among the key projects in motion are the proposed CSMT–Panvel fast line, the upgradation of Panvel and Targhar stations, and the construction of a new Panvel–Karjat suburban rail corridor. These developments are designed to enhance last-mile connectivity to the airport and support the wider transport ecosystem in Navi Mumbai.
Originally proposed in the 2009–10 Union railway budget, the 47-km CSMT–Panvel fast line was placed on hold as focus shifted towards Mumbai’s expanding metro network. The plan has now been revived under Phase 4 of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP), led by the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC). Senior officials confirmed that consulting agencies will soon be appointed to conduct a feasibility study for new rail corridors around NMIA and the proposed Third Mumbai region.
The fast line, expected to serve nearly 39,000 peak-hour passengers by 2031, will operate trains every 4–5 minutes. Its alignment will be adjusted to integrate with the ongoing Rs 2,500-crore redevelopment of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and to avoid interference with the Atal Setu and the proposed Sewri–Worli connector.
Meanwhile, Panvel and Targhar stations are undergoing significant upgrades. Targhar station, located just a kilometre from NMIA, will feature terrace parking, shuttle services, retail areas, and three platforms, making it a crucial intermodal hub. Panvel station, being expanded to 12 platforms, will cater to both suburban and long-distance trains as well as the new Panvel–Karjat line.
Amitesh Shah, Zonal CEO, Mumbai Zone, Godrej Properties, noted that NMIA would be a “key driver of residential and commercial growth” across Panvel, as improved connectivity boosts demand for integrated townships.
Source: Hindustan Times
