Faster, Safer, and More Comfortable Commuting Experience Awaits Mumbaikars
In a groundbreaking development for Mumbai’s transportation system, the city’s beloved suburban trains, often referred to as the lifeline of Mumbai, are set to be transformed into state-of-the-art Vande Metro trains. This major upgrade, announced as part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III (MUTP-III) and 3A (MUTP-3A), will revolutionize daily commuting for millions of Mumbaikars.
Inspired by the success of India’s first indigenous semi-high speed train, the Vande Bharat Express, the Vande Metro trains will offer a faster, safer, and more comfortable travel experience for shorter distances between cities that are approximately 100 kilometers apart. This initiative was highlighted in the Union Budget 2023-24, signaling the government’s commitment to improving urban transport networks.
Mumbai currently operates two suburban railway corridors, namely the Central Railways and the Western Railways, covering a combined distance of 319 kilometers. These corridors connect five districts of Mumbai, including Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Mumbai suburban. The Central and Western railway lines, which operate a total of 3,129 services, including the AC local trains, carry approximately 60 lakh passengers daily.
Under the direction of the Railways Ministry, the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has been entrusted with the task of procuring and transforming 238 suburban trains into the modern Vande Metro trains. The MRVC, in collaboration with its technology partner, will ensure compliance with the Make in India guidelines set by the Department for Promotion of Industries and Internal Trade. The Vande Metro trains will be developed in their own factories, showcasing India’s manufacturing capabilities.
Sunil Udasi, Chief Public Relations Officer of MRVC, confirmed that the technology partner will also establish two maintenance depots for the newly upgraded rakes. This infrastructure investment will ensure the seamless functioning and upkeep of the Vande Metro trains, further enhancing their efficiency and reliability.
One of the key factors driving the transition to Vande Metro trains is the ever-increasing demand for air-conditioned (AC) local trains, particularly during scorching summer months. However, the existing number of AC trains falls short of meeting the city’s population’s needs. The introduction of Vande Metro trains is expected to address this issue, offering a comfortable and refreshing travel experience to commuters.
The arrival of Vande Metro in Mumbai signifies a remarkable milestone in the city’s transportation history. Not only will it cater to the rising demand for efficient and comfortable commuting options, but it will also reduce travel times, enhance passenger safety, and improve overall travel experience for millions of Mumbaikars.
As the Vande Metro trains embark on their journey through the bustling city, the citizens of Mumbai eagerly await the realization of this long-awaited dream. The transformative impact of this upgrade will undoubtedly redefine the way Mumbaikars traverse the city, signaling a new era of progress and modernity in Mumbai’s urban transport system.
