Has the Maha Cabinet Cleared the Purchase of 238 AC Local Trains in Mumbai?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra Cabinet's recent approval for the procurement of 238 AC local trains marks a significant enhancement to Mumbai's transport infrastructure, promising to modernize the city's overburdened railway system. This project is part of the ambitious Mumbai Urban Transport Project and aims to improve commuter experience.
Key Takeaways
- 238 new AC local trains to modernize Mumbai's railway network.
- Project funded without taking external loans.
- State government covers 50% of the costs.
- New trains to have modern amenities like closed doors and automated systems.
- Expansion of infrastructure through MUTP-3B.
Mumbai, Sep 3 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Cabinet has officially sanctioned the allocation of Rs 4,826 crore for the acquisition of 238 air-conditioned local trains designated for Mumbai. This funding is sourced from the collaboration between the Railway Board and the state government as part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project Phase-3 and 3A (MUTP-3 & 3A).
The implementation of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project is under the purview of the Mumbai Railway Development Corporation.
This initiative includes the procurement of 238 suburban railway trains under phases 3 (MUTP-3) and 3A (MUTP-3A), entirely funded by the Railways and the State Government, eliminating the need for external loans. The State Government's contribution will account for 50 percent, equating to Rs 2,413 crore, pending approval from the Central Railway Board.
The recent cabinet decision follows the approval from the cabinet infrastructure committee, chaired by CM Fadnavis, on August 19, which endorsed the purchase of these new AC local trains. This marks a significant enhancement of modern rolling stock for Mumbai's strained local train system.
According to the Chief Minister, the fare structure for these AC trains will mirror that of the conventional non-AC local trains. Referring to this development as a “turning point” for Mumbai’s crucial transport system, CM Fadnavis emphasized that the new trains will come equipped with closed doors, automatic systems, and metro-like conveniences, gradually phasing out the older models currently in use.
In another significant move, the state cabinet has also greenlit the construction of 136.652 km of new routes under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP-3B), put forward by the Mumbai Railway Development Corporation.
The overall project is projected to cost Rs 14,907.47 crore, with the state government set to cover 50 percent of this financial obligation, amounting to Rs 7,453.73 crore.
As part of the MUTP-3B initiative, the construction plans include the third and fourth railway lines between Badlapur-Karjat (32.46 km), the fourth line between Asangaon-Kasara (34.966 km), and a new suburban railway corridor between Panvel and Vasai (69.226 km).
This suburban railway project will also be managed by the Mumbai Railway Development Corporation, and it has been designated as an “Urgent Public Project” and an “Ambitious Urban Transport Project”.
Furthermore, 50 percent of the proceeds from the development of railway land at Bandra (East) will be allocated as required for the state government's share, while the rest will be deposited into the Urban Transport Fund (UTF), as stated in the government release.
Additionally, a proposal will be submitted to the Central Government over time to impose a surcharge on railway tickets related to this project, similar to what was done in MUTP-2, with the collected funds going into the state’s urban transport fund.
Point of View
The approval of new air-conditioned local trains in Mumbai is a crucial step towards enhancing urban mobility and addressing the infrastructural challenges faced by one of India's largest cities. This initiative not only reflects the government's commitment to modernizing public transport but also ensures that more citizens can travel efficiently and comfortably. The focus on funding from local sources, rather than external loans, demonstrates fiscal responsibility. As always, NationPress stands for thorough reporting on developments that affect the public's daily life.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total cost of the AC local train project?
The total cost of the project is Rs 4,826 crore.
How many AC local trains will be purchased?
A total of 238 AC local trains will be purchased.
Who will fund the project?
The project will be funded by the Railway Board and the state government.
Will the fare for AC trains differ from non-AC trains?
No, the fare for the AC trains will be the same as that of the general non-AC local trains.
What additional infrastructure is included in the project?
The project also includes the construction of new railway lines under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP-3B).
