Indian Railways has recently approved the purchase of 238 air-conditioned (AC) local trains, a decision that comes two years after tenders for these trains were initially floated and then withdrawn without explanation.
The demand for AC trains in Mumbai’s suburban network has been growing, as they offer a more comfortable travel experience.
The procurement of additional AC local trains follows an assurance made by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav earlier this year. This decision was previously delayed due to protests over high ticket prices. The project is part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP), which aims to enhance the city’s rail infrastructure.
Plans for Automatic Door Systems
Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar announced that two prototypes of automatic door closing systems for non-AC local trains will be ready by December. These systems will be gradually implemented to improve safety and efficiency in train operations.
Kumar also mentioned that non-AC trains with automatic doors are expected to begin service by the end of 2025. The prototypes are being developed at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, with plans to expand the fleet once testing is complete.
Mumbai Urban Transport Project Details
The MUTP-3 scheme includes the procurement of 47 AC local trains at an estimated cost of INR 3,491 crore. Meanwhile, MUTP-3A aims to acquire 191 trains, costing approximately INR 15,802 crore. In June 2023, global tenders were issued by the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC), but decisions were postponed, delaying procurement.
Currently, Central Railway operates 80 services daily, transporting around 79,000 passengers. Western Railway runs 109 services each day, carrying approximately 1.25 lakh passengers. To accommodate more passengers, existing 12-coach trains will be converted into 15-coach ones.
Kumar stated that all challenges related to the tender process have been resolved and tenders will be invited soon for the new AC local trains. This move is expected to significantly improve commuter comfort and capacity in Mumbai’s bustling suburban rail network.