Present and future of Mumbai’s Lifeline

Railways is the lifeline of the Nation. Nowhere is this as true as in Mumbai, where the suburban network popularly called ‘the local train’ ensures that Mumbaikars reaches their destination on time. At a total length of 459 kms the network has more than 3,000 services of local trains carrying around 80 lakh Mumbaikars on a daily basis, making it one of the busiest urban transport systems in the world. The dabbawala carrying tiffins on the local train has become an iconic image to describe the city. To ensure that Mumbai has world class infrastructure in keeping with its metropolitan status, Government under Prime Minister

Shri Narendra Modi ji has taken a number of initiatives to upgrade the suburban system, which will help improve passenger satisfaction and safety, reduce congestion, and adequately plan for the future. In the 2018-19 budget, an unprecedented Rs 55,000 crore was announced for a new project in Mumbai— the MUTP 3A, showcasing the Government's ambitious plans for the suburban system. Under this a number of lines will be extended and introduced. In addition, a communications based train control system will be introduced for improved safety and punctuality. Funds will also be allocated towards station improvement and procurement of AC rakes.

Goyal is Interim Finance; and Railways and Coal minister