Kalyan MP Shrikant Shinde on Tuesday raised significant demands in the Lok Sabha aimed at improving suburban railway services, especially in Thane, Kalyan and Maharashtra.
Participating in a discussion on Railways, Shinde called for conversion of all local trains into 15-coach trains, expansion of railway platforms, and the establishment of Marathi literature stalls at every railway station to promote regional culture.
Shrikant Shinde Focused on Mumbai Metropolitan Commuters
Highlighting the heavy dependence on railways in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Shinde said lakhs of commuters rely on daily train services. Representing the Kalyan constituency, he noted that railway infrastructure has seen major improvements after 2014.
Push for Pending Infrastructure Projects
Shinde urged the government to fast-track the 5th and 6th railway lines between Thane and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, which remain delayed due to land acquisition and rehabilitation challenges.
He emphasized the need for coordination between authorities to ensure that long-time residents are rehabilitated properly while allowing critical infrastructure projects to move forward.
₹23,000 Crore Boost for Maharashtra Railways
Welcoming the ₹23,000 crore allocation for Maharashtra in the 2026–27 Railway Budget, Shinde said the funding will significantly enhance connectivity and capacity. He also appreciated the ₹800 crore allocation for the Kalyan Yard Remodeling Project.
Key Demands Raised
- Conversion of all suburban trains into 15-coach trains
- Increase in platform lengths
- New train service between Diva and CSMT
- More trains between Kopar Khairane and Vasai
- Fast-tracking Airoli–Kalwa Elevated Corridor
- Marathi literature stalls at all stations
- Completion of Konkan Railway doubling work
- Restoration of concessions for senior citizens and journalists
Shinde also noted that the completion of the Dedicated Freight Corridor will ease congestion by separating goods and passenger train traffic, allowing more suburban services in the future.
