The long-awaited integration of Ghatkopar railway station with the Metro Blue Line commenced on Thursday, marking a significant step toward easing commuter movement at one of Mumbai’s busiest transit hubs. The project began with the demolition of the old railway ticket booking counter, as teams initiated the removal of existing structures to enable a seamless connection between the suburban rail network and the Metro station. Authorities expect the work to be completed in the coming months.
As part of the integration plan, a large elevated deck is being constructed at the southern end of the station. This deck will link directly to the Metro station concourse, creating improved access between the two systems. In addition, new foot overbridges (FOBs) are being built on both the north and south sides to streamline passenger flow.
According to project updates, on the Platform 1 side, eight out of fifteen foundations for the elevated deck have been completed, while four columns and five girders have already been launched. For the 12-metre-wide south FOB, the main foundation work has been completed, and girders across all three spans have been installed. On the north side, two out of four foundations are ready, with the remaining two currently under construction. A Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation official told mid-day the deck would be ready by mid-April.
Ghatkopar station handles heavy daily footfall, as commuters from Metro Blue Line 1 converge with Central Railway suburban passengers. For years, the lack of adequate circulation space has led to crowding concerns. The upcoming elevated deck and expanded pedestrian infrastructure are expected to significantly enhance passenger dispersal, safety and overall movement efficiency at the Metro end of the station.
Source: Mid-day
