Mumbai Suburban Railway Network Set for Major Upgrade with New Trains
The bustling Mumbai suburban rail network, a lifeline for millions of daily commuters, is poised for a significant transformation with the introduction of advanced train sets in the coming financial year. This upgrade aims to address chronic congestion and improve passenger safety across one of India's busiest urban transit systems.
ICF to Manufacture 15-Car EMU Trains for Central and Western Railways
In a major development announced during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at the M Arun Sports Complex, Integral Coach Factory (ICF) General Manager U Subba Rao revealed ambitious production plans. The Chennai-based manufacturing unit will produce three rakes of 15-car EMU trains specifically for both Central Railway (CR) and Western Railway (WR) during the current financial year 2025-26.
These extended train sets are expected to substantially ease overcrowding on some of Mumbai's most congested suburban corridors. To accommodate the longer trains, both railway zones are actively working on platform extension projects, ensuring seamless integration into the existing infrastructure.
Introduction of Automatic Door Closure System in Non-AC Trains
Beyond the capacity enhancement, ICF will also manufacture two EMU rakes equipped with automatic door closure systems. These non-AC local trainsets will feature several modern amenities including:
- Automatic doors for enhanced passenger safety
- Vestibules for improved inter-car movement
- Roof-mounted ventilation units
- Doors with louvers for better air circulation
This marks a significant expansion of automatic door technology beyond the currently operational AC EMUs on the Mumbai suburban network, bringing advanced safety features to regular commuter trains.
Broader Modernization Efforts for Mumbai's Rail Network
The train manufacturing initiative is part of a larger modernization push for Mumbai's suburban railways. The Ministry of Railways has additionally sanctioned 238 rakes of 12 coaches each for deployment across the network, indicating a comprehensive approach to capacity enhancement and service improvement.
These developments come alongside recent announcements about new AC local trains being introduced on specific routes, demonstrating a multi-pronged strategy to upgrade Mumbai's critical transportation infrastructure. The combined efforts of ICF, Central Railway, and Western Railway signal a new era of enhanced commuter experience for India's financial capital.
