January 2, 2026: Mumbai’s transport infrastructure is poised for a major upgrade in 2026, with a series of initiatives across suburban railways, the Metro network, and key road bridges aimed at increasing capacity, reducing congestion, and enhancing the commuting experience for millions of daily passengers.
On the Western Railway (WR), several capacity-enhancement projects are underway. These include the construction of a pit line at Bandra, the development of a new Jogeshwari Terminus, and the addition of a sixth line between Borivali and Virar. Mumbai Central will see improvements to its coaching complex apron, while Virar station is set for a comprehensive makeover. WR is also preparing to induct new AC local rakes and extend 15-car train operations up to Dahanu. Additionally, several stations are being redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, including Charni Road, Marine Lines, Grant Road, Prabhadevi, Malad, and Jogeshwari Terminus.
Meanwhile, the Central Railway (CR) is progressing on multiple fronts. Plans include operating more 15-car suburban trains, constructing a third line between Asangaon and Kasara, and advancing the Panvel-Karjat new line project. The Uran suburban corridor will also be expanded with two new stations at Targhar and Gavhan, enhancing connectivity to Navi Mumbai.
Mumbai’s Metro network is set for expansion as well. Proposed new lines include Red Line 9 (Dahisar–Mira Road), Yellow Line 2B (Mankhurd–Diamond Garden via Chembur), and Green Line 4, which will add stations at Gaimukh, Govaniwada, Kasarvadavli, and Vijay Garden.
Complementing rail-based transport, several key road bridges are slated for construction or upgrading, including those at Sion, Vidyavihar, and near Mumbai Central station, aimed at smoothing traffic flow and reducing bottlenecks in high-density areas.
With these coordinated upgrades across WR, CR, the Metro, and road infrastructure, Mumbai’s public transport ecosystem is expected to become faster, more efficient, and better equipped to handle rising passenger demand, marking a transformative phase for the city’s commuting landscape.
Western Railway: Borivali–Virar 6th line, 15-car trains to Dahanu, new AC locals, station redevelopments (Charni Road, Marine Lines, Grant Road, Prabhadevi, Malad, Jogeshwari Terminus)
Central Railway: Panvel–Karjat line, Asangaon–Kasara 3rd line
Metro: Red Line 9 Dahisar–Mira Road, Yellow Line 2B Mankhurd–Diamond Garden, Green Line 4 Gaimukh, Govaniwada, Kasarvadavli, Vijay Garden
Source: Mid-day
