Have the Railways Approved 10 New Suburban Services for Mumbai?
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Synopsis
On December 5, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the approval of 10 new suburban train services in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. This initiative, supported by PM Modi and Railway Minister Vaishnaw, aims to enhance commuting for Mumbaikars and ease overcrowding, ensuring a more comfortable travel experience for thousands.
Key Takeaways
- 10 new suburban train services approved for Mumbai.
- Services include Nerul-Uran and Belapur-Uran routes.
- Additional halts at Targhar and Gavhan stations for convenience.
- Designed to reduce overcrowding in Mumbai's rail network.
- Future plans include 250 to 300 new services in the coming years.
Mumbai, December 5 (NationPress) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for launching new local train services in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), emphasizing that it will greatly assist commuters. In a post on X, the Chief Minister stated, "A special gift for the residents of Mumbai! Thank you, Hon. PM Modi Ji, and Hon. Union Minister Vaishnaw Ji, for initiating additional local train services: Nerul–Uran–Nerul (4 trips) and Belapur–Uran–Belapur (6 trips), following my request. I am thankful for the approval of stops at Targhar and Gavhan. This will greatly facilitate the daily journeys of Mumbaikars."
This announcement coincides with the one-year anniversary of the Mahayuti government under Chief Minister Fadnavis.
In a correspondence to CM Fadnavis, the Railway Minister confirmed that approval has been granted for the immediate rollout of 10 new suburban train services in the MMR.
According to a letter dated December 5, 2025, from the Minister to CM Fadnavis, these new services will primarily benefit commuters traveling along the extended Port Line corridor.
The Railway Board's communication outlines the allocation of the new services, which includes Nerul-Uran-Nerul: 4 services and Belapur-Uran-Belapur: 6 services. Notably, all 10 services have been approved to include an extra stop at Targhar station for public convenience.
The Railway Board also highlighted the need for stoppages for Port Line suburban trains at Targhar and Gavhan stations and emphasized the urgency to enhance Port Line services on the Nerul-Uran and Belapur-Uran segments. The introduction of the new trains is mandated to commence at the earliest opportunity to accommodate the increasing passenger volume in the Navi Mumbai and Raigad regions.
Previously, Minister Vaishnaw announced several initiatives regarding the enhancement of train services and infrastructure for the MMR and its suburban railway network. The approach aims at a significant investment in new lines, updated rolling stock (trains), and advanced technology to boost service frequency and alleviate overcrowding.
The Minister indicated that the ongoing infrastructure initiative will pave the way for the addition of approximately 250 to 300 local train services on the Central and Western lines over the next five years.
This substantial enhancement aims to relieve pressure on the existing 3,200 daily services.
Additionally, he declared the approval for the acquisition and production of 238 new-generation suburban trains (rakes) for Mumbai. These will include new air-conditioned (AC) rakes equipped with modern features, improved acceleration, and enhanced ventilation (higher oxygen levels) to boost passenger comfort and mitigate overcrowding.
Point of View
I believe this initiative represents a significant step towards improving public transportation in Mumbai. The collaboration between state and central authorities reflects a commitment to enhancing commuter convenience and addressing the pressing issue of overcrowding in suburban trains. It is essential for the authorities to continue investing in infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the population.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new train services being introduced in Mumbai?
The Railways has approved 10 new suburban train services, including Nerul-Uran-Nerul (4 trips) and Belapur-Uran-Belapur (6 trips), enhancing connectivity for commuters.
When will the new services start operating?
The introduction of the new trains is expected to commence at the earliest convenient date, as directed by the Railway Board.
Who are the key figures behind this initiative?
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw played crucial roles in initiating these new services.
What is the significance of these new services?
These services aim to alleviate overcrowding and improve the commuting experience for residents of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
How many additional local train services are planned in total?
In the next five years, approximately 250 to 300 additional local train services are expected to be introduced on the Central and Western lines.
