All 94 eligible families affected by the railway land clearance at Garib Nagar in Bandra East have received permanent alternative homes, allowing Western Railway to proceed with the demolition of the remaining structures. The clearance follows a major demolition drive in May 2026, when hundreds of structures were removed but these 94 were retained pending rehabilitation.
MMRDA Completes Rehabilitation of Affected Families
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has allotted permanent alternative accommodation to all 94 eligible project-affected persons (PAPs) and handed over possession of their homes. Western Railway subsequently demolished the remaining structures on October 30.
The action was carried out in compliance with a Bombay High Court order dated October 23, 2026, in Writ Petition (Lodging) No. 8840 of 2026. The court directed the eligible occupants to vacate the premises within a week and instructed the railway authorities to complete the demolition within 48 hours thereafter.
Platform 8 and Integrated Railway Complex Planned
The cleared land will facilitate Western Railway’s proposed infrastructure expansion on the eastern side of Bandra Terminus. The plan includes an integrated railway complex with improved passenger access and amenities.
A key component is the construction of an additional platform, Platform 8, along with expanded train stabling facilities to accommodate more trains. Western Railway also plans to upgrade train maintenance infrastructure and develop or relocate ancillary maintenance facilities.
The proposed works include improved passenger circulation areas, holding spaces and supporting facilities to manage the movement of passengers, particularly during peak hours and long-distance train arrivals and departures. The expansion is expected to increase train-handling capacity and improve passenger facilities at Bandra Terminus.
Source: Times of India
