In a bid to alleviate the mounting congestion between Andheri and Borivli sections, Western Railway (WR) has announced an extensive project to extend the harbour line by eight km, stretching from Goregaon to Borivli. With a completion deadline set for the fiscal year 2027-28, the project is poised to bring much-needed relief to the bustling city of Mumbai.
Tenders for this monumental rail endeavour, valued at Rs 825 crore, are set to be unveiled in May 2024, with anticipated commencement of work by mid-June. The project will be executed in two phases, with the initial phase encompassing a two-km stretch from Goregaon to Malad, projected to be operational by the fiscal year 2026-27. Subsequently, the second phase will focus on extending the line by an additional five km from Malad to Borivli, slated for completion by 2027-28.
In preparation for this transformative venture, WR has wasted no time in initiating preliminary tasks, including comprehensive geotechnical investigations, drone surveys, and meticulous assessments of existing structures. A critical aspect of the project involves the acquisition of land, with a total of 1,900 sq m at 20 locations earmarked for acquisition, predominantly in the private domain. Efforts to secure these parcels are already underway, with due diligence being observed in navigating the acquisition process. Notably, the project is anticipated to impact 24 private buildings along its trajectory.
However, amidst the challenges posed by space constraints, WR has devised innovative solutions to accommodate the infrastructure requirements. In a departure from convention, the station at Malad will be elevated, diverging from the ground-level stations characteristic of the line. This strategic decision, albeit necessitated by spatial limitations, underscores WR’s commitment to optimising resources and enhancing operational efficiency. The construction of a flyover at Malad, estimated at Rs 145 crore, alongside the installation of an elevated station, projected at Rs 65 crore, exemplifies WR’s proactive approach in surmounting logistical hurdles.
As Mumbai’s transportation landscape undergoes a transformative evolution, WR’s ambitious initiative heralds a new era of connectivity and accessibility for commuters traversing the city’s arterial corridors. With meticulous planning and steadfast determination, the extension of the harbour line stands as a testament to WR’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the public transit infrastructure and fostering sustainable urban development.