Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/changing-city-central-railway-proposed-fifth-sixth-line-project-enhance-mumbai-rail-network-9216198/
Publisher: Indian Express
In order to provide more services in the jam-packed local trains, the Central Railway has proposed the laying of a new fifth, sixth line between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla into two phases. The project is aimed to segregate the movement of local trains and mail/express trains. The fifth sixth line track is currently available between Kalyan and LTT, and the Central Railway has planned to extend it further from Kurla up to CSMT into two phases.
Objective:
Enhance local train services by segregating local and mail/express train movements.
Scope:
Construction of a new fifth and sixth line between CSMT and Kurla in two phases.
Current Infrastructure:
The fifth and sixth lines are already operational between Kalyan and LTT. The plan is to extend these lines from Kurla to CSMT.
Benefits:
– Increased local train services.
– Improved crowd dispersal, especially during peak hours.
– Mail/express trains won’t use local train tracks, preventing speed reduction.
– Improved punctuality for local and long-distance trains.
Cost: Estimated at Rs 920 crore (2016 cost).
Status Update:
Land acquisition is in progress. The proposed demolition of Sion bridge will take place after 10th and 12th board exams. Elevated track construction at Kurla for the harbour link. Platform construction work on the west side has commenced. Ground level track of the harbour line to be converted into the fifth and sixth lines after elevated track completion.
What official says:
According to Swapnil Nila, Central Railway Chief Public Relations Officer, Mumbai division suburban corridor is one of the busiest rail networks and hence the fifth sixth line project will decongest the tracks and increase the capacity to run suburban and long distance trains in punctual manner. Headway between two trains is 3-4 minutes and long distance trains are also operating, Nila said.
