Central Railway will extend platforms at CSMT to accommodate 15-car trains, and this project aims to expand capacity, reduce congestion, and improve commuter safety across Mumbai’s suburban rail network by December. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Central Railway will extend platforms at CSMT to accommodate 15-car trains, and this project aims to expand capacity, reduce congestion, and improve commuter safety across Mumbai’s suburban rail network by December.
Source, photo: infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com

Central Railway platform upgrades and service expansion

Central Railway plans to extend platforms 5 and 6 at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. These changes will allow more 15-car trains and help manage the overwhelming rush on key routes.

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Currently, the network runs 22 such services, while Western Railway operates more than 200. Officials believe doubling the number of longer trains will ease the severe crush load, especially on the Kalyan-Thane corridor.

Last month’s tragic accident in Mumbra, where several passengers died after falling from overcrowded coaches, underlined the urgency. Longer trains carry 25% more passengers, and the extension could significantly reduce safety risks during peak hours.

Central Railway blueprint for suburban growth

According to its 2017 blueprint, Central Railway aims to expand 15-car operations in two phases. Phase I targets the Karjat corridor, serving fast-growing suburbs like Ambernath and Badlapur. Phase II extends capacity on the Kasara line, including Titwala and Asangaon.

Beyond Thane, only Dombivli and Kalyan can currently handle longer trains. Expanding infrastructure will allow more suburban hubs to benefit. Officials also plan to launch semi-fast 15-car services that run express between CSMT and Thane but shift to the slow corridor afterward, serving stations such as Kalva, Mumbra, Diva, and Kopar.

Central Railway first introduced 15-car trains in 2012, three years after Western Railway. With these upgrades, the operator intends to finally close the gap and provide more reliable capacity for millions of commuters.

Source, photo: infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com

FAQ

What is Central Railway doing to reduce overcrowding?

Central Railway is extending platforms to run more 15-car trains, which carry 25% more passengers and help reduce congestion during peak hours.

When will Central Railway complete the platform extension project?

Officials confirmed that the extension of platforms 5 and 6 at CSMT is scheduled for completion by December this year.

Can Central Railway run more 15-car trains beyond Thane?

Yes, the plan includes expansions on the Karjat and Kasara corridors, which will eventually allow longer trains to serve fast-growing suburban towns.

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