The Mumbai Suburban Rail Network is set for a significant upgrade. According to reports, the upcoming interim budget for the fiscal year 2024–2025 is expected to see a 30% increase in funding for railways.
Last year, the allocation by the central government was INR 1,101 crore. This year, the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has reportedly requested approximately INR 1,450 crore for various ongoing and planned railway projects.
Under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP), several projects are underway to meet the demands of passengers. The increased funding will benefit several initiatives. These include the development of a new railway corridor between Panvel and Karjat and between Airoli and Kalwa on the Central Railway (CR). And an elevated suburban corridor link between Airoli and Kalwa on CR.
Some other notable projects include the expansion of the Harbour Line to Borivali, the construction of the 5th and 6th lines between Borivali and Virar, the 4th line between Kalyan and Asangaon, and the 3rd and 4th lines between Kalyan and Badlapur. It also includes the quadrupling of the Virar-Dahanu Road stretch on the Western Railway (WR).
The MUTP also includes essential elements such as rolling stock maintenance facilities, more stabling lines, and station upgrades. In addition to these, cab signalling systems are being implemented on several lines, and the Kalyan Yard is being remodelled to separate long-distance and suburban trains.
The central and state governments receive an equal portion of the money allotted under MUTP. If INR 1,450 crores is set by the Central Government for MUTP projects, state governments will have to make an equal contribution to the same account.
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