In a significant step towards streamlining railway operations in Navi Mumbai, the City and Industrial Development Corporation (Cidco) on Monday formally transferred Targhar, Bamandongri and Kharkopar railway stations, along with their associated infrastructure, to Central Railway.
The move marks the first phase of a broader plan under which all railway stations developed by Cidco will gradually be handed over to Indian Railways. Officials said the remaining stations are expected to be transferred over the next six months, a process that is anticipated to improve maintenance standards, station management and passenger amenities across the network.
The transfer ceremony took place at Cidco Bhavan and was attended by Cidco Vice Chairman and Managing Director Ashwin Mudgal, Thane MP Naresh Mhaske, Shiv Sena Navi Mumbai chief Kishor Patkar, Cidco Joint Managing Director Dr Raja Dayanidhi, and senior officials from both Cidco and Central Railway.
As part of the handover, a wide range of infrastructure assets have been transferred, including station buildings, forecourts, passenger parking facilities, electrical substations, telecommunication systems and related operational infrastructure. Central Railway will now assume full responsibility for station operations, asset maintenance, passenger safety and service management.
Mudgal described the transfer as an important milestone in the evolution of Navi Mumbai’s railway infrastructure.
“Cidco has played a pivotal role in establishing the railway infrastructure in Navi Mumbai. The transfer of these stations and related facilities to Central Railway will ensure more efficient management and better services for commuters,” he said.
According to Mhaske, the issue originated after an agreement between Cidco and Indian Railways expired in 2008. Since the stations were never formally taken over by the Railways, uncertainty over ownership and maintenance responsibilities persisted for nearly 18 years.
“The lack of clarity over ownership affected maintenance and development, leaving passengers with inadequate facilities for nearly 18 years. With the responsibility now clearly defined, the Railways can professionally maintain these stations and provide modern amenities,” he said.
Mhaske added that he had repeatedly raised the matter with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Parliament and during review meetings. A meeting held on May 15 eventually paved the way for the phased transfer process.
“This handover is only the first phase. The remaining stations will be transferred within six months. Once the Railways takes complete charge, these stations can be developed on the lines of other modern railway stations,” he added.
Officials believe the transition will help bring greater operational efficiency and accelerate the modernisation of Navi Mumbai’s railway infrastructure.
Source: Hindustan Times
