December 5, 2025: The Railway Ministry has approved the launch of 10 new suburban train services in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), offering a major boost to daily commuters, especially along the expanding Port Line corridor. The announcement came on Friday, coinciding with the Mahayuti government completing its first year in office.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for the swift approval. In a post on X, he wrote, “Special gift for Mumbaikars! Thank you, Hon. PM, Narendra Modi Ji, and Hon. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw ji, for initiating additional local train services: Nerul–Uran–Nerul (4 trips) and Belapur–Uran–Belapur (6 trips), in response to my request. Grateful for the approval of stoppages at Targhar and Gavhan. This will significantly benefit commuters and make the daily travel of Mumbaikars much easier.”
A letter dated December 5, 2025, from the Railway Minister to the Chief Minister confirms that approval has been granted for the immediate introduction of these services. The newly sanctioned trains—four on the Nerul–Uran–Nerul section and six on the Belapur–Uran–Belapur route—will all include a halt at Targhar station to enhance public convenience. The Railway Board has also cleared stoppages at both Targhar and Gavhan stations, emphasising the need to expedite Port Line operations in the Navi Mumbai and Raigad regions.
The introduction of the services is intended to commence at the earliest suitable date to address rising passenger demand as suburban growth accelerates along the extended corridor.
Meanwhile, Minister Vaishnaw has highlighted broader expansion plans for the region’s suburban rail system, noting a significant investment push that includes new lines, upgraded technology, and additional rolling stock. He has indicated that 250 to 300 more local services could be added across the Central and Western lines over the next five years, easing pressure on the existing 3,200 daily trains. The Centre has also cleared the procurement of 238 new-generation suburban rakes, featuring improved acceleration, enhanced ventilation, and more AC coaches to improve commuter comfort and reduce overcrowding.
Source: The Hawk
