Presently, about 120 originating Mail/Express trains and about 3,200 suburban trains are handled daily in Mumbai area. (Image generated using AI)Mumbai rail network: The Ministry of Railways has planned to enhance train handling capacity in the Mumbai area. The country’s first train ran from Boribunder to Thane on April 16, 1853, on the present-day Mumbai Division of Central Railway (CR). The city also holds the distinction of operating India’s first electric train on February 3, 1925, on the Harbour Line.Also Read | Indian Railways Middle Berth Rules: From sleeping time to seat norms – Here’s all you need to knowThe rail network in Mumbai falls under the administrative jurisdiction of two zonal railways: Central Railway and Western Railway. Presently, about 120 originating Mail/Express trains and about 3,200 suburban trains are handled daily in Mumbai area.Increasing train handling capacity in Mumbai areaTo enhance train handling capacity across the Mumbai region, the national transporter has undertaken multiple infrastructure works at 12 railway stations, including Bandra Terminus, Mumbai Central, Jogeshwari, Dadar, Vasai Road, Panvel–Kalamboli, Kalyan, LTT, Parel, Virar, Dahanu Road, and Mira Road. These works include the construction of pit lines, extension of platforms, and other related improvements.Extension of platform lengthThe Railways is also working to extend platform lengths at 34 stations to accommodate 15-car EMUs. The suburban trains are considered as the lifeline of Mumbai.Introduction of new generation trainsThe national transporter has also planned to introduce 238 rakes of 12-car trains with automatic doors under MUTP-III and IIIA, at an estimated cost of Rs 19,293 crore.New railway line projects for increasing capacity in MumbaiIn a bid to increase the capacity of the Mumbai suburban rail network, the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP)-II (Rs 8,087 crore), MUTP-III (Rs 10,947 crore) and MUTP-IIIA (Rs 33,690 crore) have been sanctioned. These projects include following works in Mumbai Suburban Area:Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd