Government Approves Two Major Railway Projects to Decongest Mumbai Rail Routes

Ajjay Bhagyakar
Dec 4, 2025
3 min read

The rail network of Mumbai is set to get a significant boost as the central government, via the Central Railway (CR), has green-lit two long-pending projects — an expansion of Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) and creation of a brand-new terminus at Parel. Hindustan Times+1

What’s Approving Means

The approval came from the Project Evaluation Committee (PEC) — the next step is clearances from the Railway Board, after which tenders will be launched. Hindustan Times
Officials expect that construction work could begin within the current financial year. Hindustan Times

LTT Expansion: More Platforms & More Long-Distance Trains

Currently, LTT — one of Mumbai’s busiest long-distance train hubs — handles around 70,000 passengers daily. Hindustan Times+1
The plan is to add 3–4 new platforms (on top of existing ones) in the space available between the present terminus and Vidyavihar station. Hindustan Times
This expansion could enable 6 to 10 additional long-distance trains (i.e. 6–10 more train services, likely as new pairs), easing the pressure on LTT and improving travel options. Hindustan Times+1
The expected result: Reduced crowding at LTT, quicker boarding/operations, and better capacity to handle peak-season surges.

Also, there are earlier redevelopment ideas for LTT that foresee creating multi-storey terminals with commercial zones — to modernize facilities and perhaps offer amenities like an airport-style experience. The Times of India+1

Parel Terminus: A New Hub to Ease CSMT and Dadar Load

The new Parel Terminus is planned at the site of the old Parel railway workshop — replacing the old workshop area. Hindustan Times+1
The estimated cost for this project is about ₹500 crore. Hindustan Times+1
Design parameters: It will feature two island platforms with four tracks/platform-lines, each capable of accommodating 26-coach long-distance trains. Hindustan Times+1
These tracks will sync with the upcoming 5th and 6th railway lines between Kurla and Parel, which are under expansion — meaning the terminus would be directly connected to new infrastructure for suburban + express segregation. The Indian Express+1
The new terminus is meant to handle express/mail trains, which will shift some long-distance traffic away from overcrowded stations such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Dadar Station — thereby reducing congestion at those crucial transit hubs. Hindustan Times+1

In short: Parel terminus will emerge as an additional long-distance train hub — easing load on central stations, improving connectivity for central Mumbai, and leveraging vacant railway-workshop land efficiently.

Why These Projects Matter — For Mumbai and Commuters

Mumbai’s rail network has long been under severe pressure — growing population, increasing demand for both suburban and long-distance travel, and limited capacity in existing termini. These two projects address capacity and congestion at two critical bottlenecks.
By adding platforms and a new terminus, the authorities aim to increase long-distance train frequency and reliability, improving commuting experience, reducing crowd pressure, and better managing train operations.
For commuters — especially those traveling long distances — this could mean more choices, shorter wait times, less crowding, and possibly smoother boarding/deboarding.
For the city — this supports long-term rail infrastructure growth, making Mumbai’s rail network more resilient, scalable, and future-ready.

What Happens Next — Timeline & What to Watch For

With PEC approval secured, the next step is clearance from the Railway Board, followed by tendering and bidding. If all goes as planned, work could begin within this financial year. Hindustan Times
The success of these projects also depends on completion of related works — notably the 5th & 6th line expansion between Kurla and Parel, and necessary track and signaling upgrades. Hindustan Times+2The Indian Express+2
Once operational, the projects are expected to bring tangible relief in congestion and better connectivity for Mumbai’s rail travellers.

In Conclusion Of ( Government Approves Two Major Railway Projects to Decongest Mumbai Rail Routes )

With approval finally in place for the LTT expansion and the new Parel terminus, Mumbai’s rail network is poised for a meaningful upgrade. For the first time in years, long-awaited plans are moving ahead — offering hope of more trains, less crowding, and improved infrastructure for millions of commuters. For residents and long-distance travellers alike, these developments signal a promising step toward a more efficient, future-ready Mumbai.

Government Approves Two Major Railway Projects to Decongest Mumbai Rail Routes

—Ajjay Bhagyakar, for Griha Realty