Mumbai’s Local Train Services Disrupted by Sixth Line Construction

Local train services between Borivali and Kandivali in Mumbai faced significant disruptions due to ongoing construction work for the much-anticipated sixth railway line. On Saturday, several local trains were cancelled as part of a larger maintenance initiative affecting this busy segment of the Western Railway network.

The interruption is part of a planned mega block for the construction of the sixth line, which aims to improve the efficiency of train operations between suburban and long-distance services. According to Vineet Abhishek, Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, the disruption will see between 320 and 350 local train services cancelled daily from December 26 to 29 and on January 10, 2024. This major block is necessary to complete non-linking works, including critical changes to the signalling system.

Many commuters expressed their frustration regarding the service interruptions. One passenger highlighted the challenges of getting to work on time, stating, “It is very difficult to go to the office, and we are getting delayed in reaching our destination.”

The construction work commenced on December 20, 2023, and is scheduled for completion by January 18, 2026. During this period, maintenance activities will primarily be carried out during late-night to early-morning hours to minimize inconvenience for commuters.

Upon completion of the sixth line, the Mumbai commuter landscape is expected to improve significantly. The initiative is part of the broader Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP), which seeks to enhance the city’s railway infrastructure. This new line will facilitate better segregation between suburban and long-distance trains, ultimately leading to a smoother commuting experience for the more than 1,400 local trains that operate daily across the Western Railway network, stretching over 125 kilometers from Churchgate in south Mumbai to Dahanu in the Palghar district.

As the construction progresses, railway authorities are urging commuters to plan their travel accordingly and to stay informed about service updates during this temporary disruption.