In a major move aimed at easing passenger congestion on Mumbai’s Western Railway network, railway authorities have prepared an integrated redevelopment plan for Borivali Railway Station and Kandivali Railway Station. Under the proposal, Kandivali will be developed as an alternative transport hub to reduce the growing pressure on Borivali, one of the busiest railway stations in the suburban network.
The plan has received approval from Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and is expected to improve passenger movement while enhancing connectivity across the western suburbs.
Borivali station currently handles around 3.65 lakh passengers every day and serves nearly 1,200 suburban train services along with 191 long-distance trains. With commuter volumes continuing to rise, managing passenger traffic has become increasingly challenging, prompting the need for a parallel transit hub nearby.
As part of the redevelopment programme, Borivali station will see the addition of new platforms, modern foot overbridges, lifts, escalators and skywalks. Passenger circulation areas will also be widened to improve crowd management and reduce bottlenecks during peak hours.
Kandivali station, meanwhile, is set to undergo a transformation into a multi-modal transport hub equipped with upgraded commuter facilities. The focus will be on integrating railway services with other modes of public transportation, creating seamless connectivity for daily travellers.
The redevelopment blueprint includes improved links to metro services, buses and road transport networks. Plans also feature multi-level parking facilities, designated pick-up and drop-off zones, and upgraded approach roads to facilitate smoother access to the station.
Railway officials believe the project will significantly improve the travel experience for commuters on the Borivali–Virar corridor by distributing passenger traffic more evenly between the two stations. The initiative is also expected to enhance safety by reducing overcrowding and minimising the risk of accidents during peak travel periods.
The redevelopment is being viewed as a key step in the ongoing modernisation of Mumbai’s suburban railway infrastructure and long-term transport planning.
Source: Prahaar
