A comprehensive transformation of Maharashtra’s railway infrastructure has been unveiled during a high-level media interaction held in Mumbai. The event, themed "Better Infrastructure, Better Technology, Better Trains", was addressed jointly by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw. Key developments aimed at upgrading the state’s transportation framework, particularly the Mumbai Suburban Railway Network, were highlighted.
An infrastructure investment of nearly ₹17,000 crore has been committed by Indian Railways, and work on over 300 kilometers of new railway lines is currently underway. These developments are being executed to decongest heavily used corridors, boost service frequency, and cater to the rapidly increasing number of suburban passengers in Mumbai. It was shared that this initiative would provide long-term relief to overburdened sections of the network.
The upcoming launch of Kavach 5.0, a next-generation safety and signaling system, was also announced. This system, specifically designed for suburban operations, is expected to shorten the time intervals between trains, enabling more frequent and safer services. By reducing headway times, the suburban railway's efficiency is set to improve significantly.
To further enhance commuter experience, 238 air-conditioned local train rakes are being introduced. These trains have been specially designed to meet the requirements of Mumbai's daily passengers, with improvements aimed at passenger comfort, reliability, and better crowd management.
In a major development towards seamless mobility, the introduction of the Mumbai One Card was confirmed by the Chief Minister. This integrated travel card will allow passengers to move effortlessly between different modes of transport, including suburban trains, metros, monorails, and BEST buses. With this card, a unified and cashless public transport experience will be offered to millions across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. In addition to railway upgrades, Mumbai has been chosen as the site for India’s first Indian Institute of Creative Technology, which will be established as an institute of national importance. This initiative is expected to boost the creative sector by offering cutting-edge infrastructure and education, positioning Mumbai as a global creative hub.
A strategic rail development—the doubling of the Gondia–Ballarshah railway line—was announced as part of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs' approval of four major projects totaling ₹18,658 crore. With a dedicated investment of ₹4,819 crore, the 240-kilometre corridor will enhance regional connectivity and logistics. It will link Vidarbha and Marathwada more effectively, while also strengthening Maharashtra’s ties with Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The project includes the modernization of 29 stations, and the construction of 36 major bridges, 338 minor bridges, and 67 road underpasses. These upgrades are being complemented by the redevelopment of 132 stations in Maharashtra under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Many of these stations are nearing completion, with modern amenities and improved passenger experiences being prioritized. The announcements were also aligned with broader developments in Maharashtra, including preparations for the upcoming World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), which is expected to be inaugurated by the Prime Minister in May. The CM emphasized the significance of these infrastructure initiatives for long-term economic and cultural growth.
Furthermore, it was announced that IRCTC would soon launch a special heritage train—the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Glorious Maratha Tour—under the Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train scheme. This 10-day journey will offer passengers a curated experience of Maharashtra’s historical, cultural, and pilgrimage sites, celebrating the legacy of the Maratha empire.
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