The Maharashtra government has established a high-level task force to develop a coordinated transport strategy covering suburban railways, metro services, Regional Rapid Transit Systems (RRTS) and other rail links across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and major urban centres in the state.
The initiative forms part of the state’s Viksit Maharashtra 2047 vision. A Government Resolution (GR) outlining the panel’s formation states that its role will include evaluating regional transport needs, identifying suitable systems and strengthening coordination between infrastructure agencies.
Panel to Submit Recommendations Within Six Months
The task force was constituted following a meeting held on October 7 under the chairmanship of the Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development-1. It has been given six months to submit its report and recommendations.
Its mandate includes assessing the technical feasibility and economic viability of proposed transport projects, preparing policy suggestions and identifying ways to integrate different public transport modes.
The panel will examine potential railway network expansions, additional metro corridors, RRTS services and semi-high-speed rail connections between major cities. Its findings are intended to guide future planning rather than serve as final approval for individual projects.
MRVC Chief to Lead Task Force
The chairman and managing director of Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) will head the panel, while the corporation’s chief manager for planning will act as member secretary.
Representatives from Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation, Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the state Urban Development Department will also participate.
Planning officials from CIDCO and metropolitan development authorities in Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Nagpur, along with Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation, have been invited to contribute. The chairperson may include additional members when necessary.
Focus on Better Connectivity Across Cities
Mumbai’s transport network comprises suburban trains, metro services, buses and the monorail. As urban development spreads across the metropolitan region, improving transfers between these systems remains a key planning requirement.
Around 3,200 suburban train services operate daily in the Mumbai area, according to the Railway Ministry.
Metro infrastructure has also expanded, with the 33.5-km underground Aqua Line, or Metro Line 3, connecting Cuffe Parade and Aarey becoming fully operational in October 2025.
The task force’s recommendations are expected to help shape long-term transport investments, improve network integration and support more efficient mobility across Maharashtra’s growing urban centres.
Source: Mid-day
