Mumbai Commuters Face Disruptions as Over 300 Local Trains Cancelled for Infrastructure Upgrade

Mumbai: Hundreds of suburban train services on Western Railway will be suspended daily from December 26 to 29, as authorities undertake essential construction work on a new railway line.

Between 320 and 350 local trains are set to be cancelled each day during this period, according to Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway. An additional round of cancellations is planned for January 10 to complete remaining tasks.

The disruptions stem from a 30-day major block imposed between Kandivli and Borivli stations. This is part of ongoing efforts to install a sixth railway line, aimed at separating suburban and long-distance train operations for improved efficiency.

Vineet Abhishek told PTI that the work primarily involves non-linking activities, including upgrades to the signalling system. He emphasized that these operations are scheduled mostly during late-night and early-morning hours to minimize impact on passengers.

The project falls under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP), which includes laying a dedicated sixth line between Borivali and Mumbai Central. Upon completion, a new 3 to 3.5-km segment between Kandivali and Borivali will be operational.

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Construction began on December 20 and is expected to wrap up by January 18, 2026. Once finished, the addition is anticipated to ease congestion and enhance the overall suburban travel experience in the city.

Western Railway runs over 1,400 local trains daily across its extensive network, connecting Churchgate in south Mumbai to Dahanu in Palghar district, spanning more than 125 kilometers.

Commuters relying on this vital lifeline are advised to plan accordingly during the affected dates, as the cancellations could lead to crowded platforms and alternative travel arrangements.