In a major initiative to reduce passenger congestion at one of the busiest railway stations on the Western Railway network, Borivali and Kandivali stations will undergo integrated redevelopment, with Kandivali set to be developed as an alternative transport hub.
The decision follows directions issued by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during a recent review meeting on the redevelopment of key railway stations in Mumbai. The minister instructed Western Railway officials to plan the simultaneous development of Borivali and Kandivali stations to distribute passenger traffic more efficiently and improve commuter convenience.
Borivali serves as a crucial interchange point for both suburban and long-distance train services on the Western Railway network. The station handles around 191 long-distance trains and nearly 1,200 suburban local services every day. With approximately 3.65 lakh passengers using the station daily, overcrowding has emerged as a significant operational challenge.
Under the redevelopment plan, Borivali station will get additional platforms along with new foot overbridges connecting existing and proposed platforms. The project will also include the installation of elevators, escalators, and skywalks to facilitate smoother passenger movement.
Authorities also plan to create dedicated entry and exit systems, wider pedestrian corridors, and improved circulation areas to streamline commuter flow within the station premises.
To reduce pressure on Borivali, Kandivali station will be developed as a parallel transport hub by utilising available railway land. The move is expected to provide alternative boarding and interchange facilities for passengers travelling across the Borivali–Virar corridor, helping ease crowding at a single station.
As part of the integrated redevelopment project, both stations will be better connected to metro services, buses, and road transport networks. Plans include the construction of multi-level parking facilities, dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones, and improved approach roads to ensure seamless multimodal connectivity.
Railway Minister Vaishnaw has also directed officials to adopt precast construction technology to expedite project execution while maintaining quality standards. He stressed the need to complete the works within stipulated timelines and to consider suggestions from local elected representatives, municipal authorities, and the state government.
The redevelopment is being undertaken under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and is expected to significantly enhance Mumbai’s suburban railway infrastructure by making it more modern, efficient, and commuter-friendly, railway officials said.
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