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The underground rail line is part of Phase 2 of the project to extend the railway network with a fifth and sixth corridor along the Kurla-Parel-CSMT stretch.
This will connect Parel/Currey Road to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) in South Mumbai. (Representative Image) (Photo: Swarajya)
Mumbai could soon get its first underground suburban railway line, as the Central Railway (CR) considers tunnelling beneath the city to build its fifth and sixth rail corridors between Parel/Currey Road and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT).
The underground stretch is part of Phase 2 of a larger expansion project along the Kurla-Parel-CSMT route.
- Phase 1, from Kurla to Parel (10.1 km), is already under construction.
- Phase 2, now being planned, will cover 7.4 km between Parel and CSMT.
Why Underground?
One of the major hurdles for mega infrastructure projects like this is acquiring land and rehabilitating affected people. To avoid these complications, the railway authorities believe tunnelling underground will provide a more efficient solution. This approach is being modelled after the success of the Mumbai Metro’s underground lines, which have managed to navigate similar challenges.
Furthermore, this underground stretch would be built at a depth of 20-25 metres, running just below the existing railway tracks. The alignment is being designed to avoid buildings, roads, and existing underground utilities, making the plan more feasible.
The plan is still in its infancy. Central Railway and the Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) have held a few meetings, but no firm blueprint has been finalised. The next steps involve detailed technical feasibility studies.
“We are currently preparing the terms of reference and will appoint a consultant soon,” said a senior railway official as per Hindustan Times.
What’s Next for the Underground Rail Line?
As the feasibility studies progress, railway officials will assess the best locations for tunnel boring machines to enter and exit at CSMT and Parel.
Once these locations are identified, alternative alignments will be explored to ensure the smooth completion of the tunnel. A consultant will be appointed to finalise the details of this exciting project.
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