60,000 sq. m. area to be developed for premium brand stores, co-working hubs, and more.
Mumbai: In a city as densely populated as Mumbai, railway station expansion will now move vertically instead of horizontally. Under its station redevelopment plan, the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) aims to create nearly 50,000–60,000 square meters of additional space across 17 stations. The project is designed not only to improve passenger convenience but also to accommodate future growth in commuter traffic.
Elevated Deck at Khar Road Station
The ambitious plan has already taken off at Khar Road station, where a 6,500 sq. ft. elevated deck has been constructed. This deck will serve more than just passenger movement — it is being developed into a commercial hub.
According to Western Railway’s proposal, the new vertical spaces will be opened for premium brand outlets, AR/VR zones, food stalls, co-working spaces, ATMs, digital advertising, and dark stores. The initiative is expected to enhance passenger facilities while also boosting railway revenues through non-fare sources.
“Khar station’s newly developed deck is not just a transit facility but also a potential commercial hub. It will provide multiple amenities to passengers and open up a new stream of Non-Fare Revenue (NFR) for the railways,” said Vineet Abhishek, CPRO, Western Railway.
Rs. 950 Crore Investment
The project is being executed under MUTP-3A at an estimated cost of Rs 950 crore. The works include, connecting Foot Over Bridges (FOBs) to elevated decks, construction of new FOBs where required, installation of escalators and lifts, inclusive facilities for differently-abled passengers, improved lighting, facade beautification of stations and upgraded modern passenger infrastructure.
Key Details:
- Total Stations: 17
- Additional Vertical Space: 50,000–60,000 sq. m.
- Project Cost: Rs. 950 crore
- Western Railway Stations: 7 (Khar Road, Santacruz, Kandivali, Mira Road, Bhayandar, Vasai Road, Nalasopara)
- Central Railway Stations: 10 (Kasara, Neral, Dombivli, Mulund, Bhandup, Ghatkopar, Govandi, Mankhurd, Chembur, GTB Nagar)
Big Relief for Commuters
Mumbai’s suburban railway network carries around 8 million passengers daily, making congestion the biggest challenge for commuters. Experts believe that the creation of vertical spaces and elevated decks will play a crucial role in handling future passenger growth efficiently.
