Railway infrastructure initiatives under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) have been given a substantial funding push for 2026–27, with a combined allocation of Rs 4,535 crore from the Union and Maharashtra budgets—an increase of nearly 20% compared to the previous year.
Out of the total allocation, the Maharashtra government has contributed Rs 2,319 crore, while the Centre’s share stands at Rs 2,216 crore. This marks a significant jump from last year’s combined outlay of Rs 3,554 crore, highlighting a renewed focus on strengthening suburban rail infrastructure in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
The funds will support ongoing works across three phases of MUTP, being executed by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC). These works include expansion of railway corridors, station upgrades, and measures aimed at reducing congestion at some of the busiest suburban stations in the region.
A major priority for the current financial year is the commissioning of the Panvel–Karjat suburban rail corridor under MUTP-3. The project is over 85% complete and is expected to become operational within the year. Once functional, it will offer an alternate route from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Karjat via Panvel, easing pressure on the Kalyan corridor and enhancing connectivity to Navi Mumbai.
Officials said the higher budgetary allocation is likely to speed up execution of key infrastructure works, leading to better crowd management and improved commuter safety.
Among the various phases, MUTP-3A has received the largest share of Rs 2,780 crore, followed by Rs 1,583 crore for MUTP-3 and Rs 172 crore for MUTP-2.
Key projects include the Virar–Dahanu quadrupling corridor, where nearly half the work—such as two major river bridges—has been completed. Under MUTP-3A, projects like the harbour line extension to Borivli, additional lines between Borivli and Virar, and new corridors on the Kalyan–Asangaon and Kalyan–Badlapur routes are progressing steadily.
MRVC is also planning to procure 238 air-conditioned suburban trains to enhance commuter comfort, with pre-bid processes underway and tenders expected to open in May.
Source: The Times of India
