January 19, 2026: Mumbai’s suburban rail network marked a significant infrastructure milestone after Western Railway (WR) on Sunday completed the sixth line between Kandivali and Borivali, paving the way for expanded services from today, January 19. With this, the Bandra–Borivali corridor now has fully operational fifth and sixth lines, a long-awaited addition aimed at easing congestion on one of the city’s busiest stretches.
WR successfully commissioned the newly built fifth and sixth Broad Gauge lines on the 3.21-km Kandivali–Borivali section. The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), Western Circle, authorised the route for passenger and freight movement following detailed inspections and successful speed trials, an official statement said. The completion also marks the end of the first phase of the Mumbai Central–Borivali sixth line project.
“A 30-day execution window was planned for the execution of this work from December 18, 2025, to January 17, 2026, during which the existing 5th line also remained suspended between Kandivali and Goregaon stations,” officials said.
During CRS trials, electric locomotives ran at speeds of 85 kmph on the fifth line and 107 kmph on the sixth line. For regular operations, permissible speeds have been fixed at 70 kmph on the new fifth line (Down), 80 kmph on the new sixth line (Up), and 15 kmph on loop lines with a maximum axle load of 23 tonnes.
The project was executed under challenging conditions in a densely built-up urban area, with limited space and proximity to active tracks. Much of the earthwork and material movement was carried out during night blocks. Engineering works included slewing of the existing fifth line, installation of 19 new points and crossings, dismantling of 18 old ones, and fitting of 13 Switch Expansion Joints.
“Bridge works included four minor bridges and one major bridge. A 36-hour mega block was utilised to complete critical re-girdering work on Major Bridge No. 61,” the statement said.
A key upgrade was the commissioning of Mumbai Suburban’s largest Electronic Interlocking system at Borivali, alongside signalling enhancements at Kandivali and extensive overhead equipment works.
Railway officials said the sixth line will act as a dedicated corridor for long-distance trains, helping segregate traffic, improve punctuality and enhance daily travel for millions of commuters.
Source: Mid-day
