September 29, 2025: Commuters on the Karjat–Khopoli route of Central Railway will face disruption on 30 September, as essential remodelling work is carried out at Karjat station to modernise the rail yard and improve the flow of long-distance trains into Mumbai.
According to railway officials, the project involves installing new track crossovers, erecting overhead equipment (OHE) portals, dismantling obsolete structures, and introducing electronic interlocking of signals. These upgrades are expected to significantly enhance safety, punctuality, and overall efficiency.
“On 30 September, four suburban services on the Karjat–Khopoli route will be cancelled to enable this work,” a senior Central Railway official confirmed.
A key element of the project is the extension of existing yard lines from 600–700 metres to over 800 metres, enabling accommodation of longer freight trains comprising up to 48–50 wagons. At present, wagons often extend beyond platform lengths, obstructing movement on neighbouring tracks. Once extended, both suburban and long-distance trains will operate more smoothly along the Karjat–Khopoli section.
Additional lines are also to be laid to streamline the passage of goods trains, while platforms will be lengthened to handle 24-coach express services. Currently, such trains are forced to make double halts due to short platforms. The extension is expected to cut waiting times from the current five to seven minutes down to just two to three minutes.
“This remodelling forms part of a long-term initiative to boost safety, capacity, and operational efficiency in the ghat section,” the official said.
Further testing of tracks, points, and signalling equipment is scheduled between late night on 12 October and the following day. During this 12-hour block, train services to and from Pune will remain suspended.
Source: Hindustan Times
