Mumbai Local News: Railway Ministry Approves Purchase of 238 AC Rakes

In a significant move towards improving the infrastructure of public transit, the Railway Ministry has granted approval for the purchase of 238 air-conditioned (AC) rakes. The estimated cost of this project is a whopping INR 20,000 crore. 

During a recent meeting with officials in Mumbai, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw gave the green signal for the procurement of these AC rakes. The meeting also discussed the status of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) phases 3 and 3A.

As part of the plan, new car sheds will be constructed at Bhivpuri and Vangaon to facilitate the maintenance of the AC local trains. However, it is important to note that the approval from the minister's office and the railway board is still pending for the procurement of these AC trains. To expedite the permission process, the Railway Board has been requested to fast-track the necessary approvals.

To initiate the procurement process, a global tender will be launched in June. This tender will invite proposals for the development, manufacture, and maintenance of the AC rakes. According to the plans for procurement, MUTP-3 will include 47 AC rakes at a cost of INR 3,491 crore and MUTP phase 3A will have 191 AC rakes at a cost of INR 15,802 crore.

The Maharashtra government has recently sanctioned INR 100 crore for the MUTP-3A project. Additionally, both the Maharashtra government and the Ministry of Railways have been actively contributing funds for the MUTP works in the 2022-2023 financial year.

The Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) is a 50:50 joint venture between the Maharashtra government and Indian Railways. It will play a crucial role in the implementation of MUTP-3 and 3A. The MRVC will receive funds exceeding INR 44,600 crore to carry out these ambitious projects.

The new AC rakes will be designed with a vestibuled configuration and machinery placement towards the end of the sixth coach. They will not only increase carrying capacity but also ensure smoother operations. These trains will be equipped with automatic smoke alarms and fire detection systems. Furthermore, accessibility for the motorman/guard will be facilitated with convenient entry and exit options.