20 New Platforms to Transform Mumbai Rail Network; CSMT–Dadar Pressure to Reduce

Mumbai Railway News: Rail travel across Mumbai and its extended metropolitan region is set for a major upgrade. To ease congestion on existing stations and to accommodate the rapidly increasing passenger load, the Indian Railways has prepared an ambitious expansion blueprint for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Under this plan, 20 new platforms will be constructed across key terminals, significantly boosting both suburban and long-distance train operations.

MMR to Get 20 New Rail Platforms

According to senior officials, four major terminals across MMR will undergo platform expansion over the next five years. The plan includes 5 new platforms at Parel, 6 at Kalyan, 4 at Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), and 5 at Panvel. Once completed, these additions will pave the way for an increase in both local trains and long-distance services—critical for a region where millions depend on the rail network every day.

Parel Terminus to Ease Load on CSMT and Dadar

As announced in the 2025 Railway Budget, Parel is being developed into a full-fledged terminus. Officials say the station will be integrated with the new 5th and 6th rail lines between Kurla and Parel, dedicated exclusively to Mail and Express trains.
This central location is expected to share the load of CSMT and Dadar, two of the busiest stations in Mumbai. Redeveloped under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, Parel will see increased originating and terminating train services once the platform expansion is completed.

Boost for Intercity and Express Services

The Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), a major departure point for long-distance trains, will see the addition of 4 new platforms. This will help decongest the station and enable more intercity and express trains to be introduced.

Panvel—emerging as a major transport hub due to upcoming projects like the Mumbai Trans-Harbour Link, Navi Mumbai International Airport, and metro network—will get 5 new platforms, strengthening its role as a key interchange point in the coming years.

Massive Relief Expected for Daily Commuters

The Central Railway currently operates 1,810 suburban services, carrying nearly 40 lakh passengers daily. With the new infrastructure in place, passenger movement is set to become smoother, faster, and more efficient across Mumbai’s lifeline.

The expansion plan promises not just improved passenger convenience, but also the capacity to introduce more train services—an essential step for a city that never stops growing.