Mumbai Local Train Update: Central Railway Conducts Survey for New Parel-Kalyan Corridor Expansion
In a significant step towards expanding Mumbai’s suburban railway network, the Central Railway (CR) has commenced a detailed field survey for the proposed 7th and 8th railway lines between Parel and Kalyan. The survey, which began on July 17, 2024, is part of a 46 km-long corridor project aimed at easing congestion and streamlining operations across the Central line. The project is expected to be completed by October 2025.
This expansion is part of a larger infrastructure upgrade designed to support the ever-increasing load on Mumbai’s lifeline – the suburban train network. The new corridor will run parallel to existing lines and is poised to significantly boost capacity and efficiency.
Multi-Phase Railway Expansion in Full Swing
Simultaneously, CR is also progressing with the construction of the fifth and sixth railway lines between Kurla and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). This 34 km stretch is being executed in two key phases:
Phase 1: The Kurla to Parel section (10.1 km), which will also house a new outstation terminus at Parel.
Phase 2: The Parel to CSMT section, further enhancing suburban connectivity.
In addition, efforts are underway to extend the third and fourth lines beyond Kalyan, while additional lines are being laid in the Ghat section to improve freight and long-distance train capacity.
Long-Term Vision: Parel Mega Terminus & Independent National Routes
These developments are aligned with a long-term strategic vision to segregate national rail traffic from suburban services. By enabling all four national railway corridors to operate independently, CR aims to ensure smoother, uninterrupted suburban train operations while expanding the reach and capacity for long-distance services.
A key highlight of the plan is the creation of the Parel Mega Terminus, envisioned as a future-ready hub catering to intercity and national rail services. This will play a vital role in decongesting current terminals and reinforcing Mumbai’s position as a major rail transit hub.