Mumbai Local Train: Relief from rush in local trains, platform capacity to increase.
Mumbai’s local train system, known for being one of the most crowded public transport systems, is set to undergo significant upgrades to accommodate the growing number of passengers. The Central Railway route, in particular, experiences the highest passenger traffic. In response to the increasing demand, the number of coaches in local trains has been increased, with plans to introduce 15-coach trains. A major decision has been made to expand platform capacity to support these changes.
The old Route Relay Interlocking (RRI) building near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) will be demolished to make way for the extension of platforms 5 and 6. This expansion will allow for the operation of 15-coach local trains, with an additional 22 services on the main route, increasing the total number of trips to 44. Central Railway officials have provided details about these developments.
Central Railway has updated the signaling system at CSMT, introducing an Electrical Interlocking system. All signaling operations will be relocated to a new building near platform 18, rendering the old RRI building obsolete. The demolition of this building will free up approximately 400 square meters of space near platforms 5 and 6, which will be used to extend the length of these platforms.
The extension project is expected to cost around ₹11.11 crore. Both platforms will be lengthened by 100 meters, increasing their total length from 290 meters to 390 meters. This expansion aims to improve passenger convenience and accommodate the longer trains.
In addition to platform extensions, several other changes are being made to enhance passenger comfort. The schedule of local trains will be adjusted, and significant upgrades are expected in Mumbai’s suburban rail services. Recognizing the issue of overcrowding, railway authorities are redesigning local train coaches to provide more space. The new coaches will be wider and more spacious compared to the current EMU local trains, offering passengers more room to stand and move comfortably.
These upgrades are part of a broader effort to modernize Mumbai’s suburban rail network and improve the overall commuting experience for millions of passengers who rely on the local train system daily.