Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) is set for a significant upgrade as Central Railway (CR) fast-tracks the extension of Platforms 12 and 13, moving the completion date from December to August. The extension will increase platform lengths to accommodate 24-coach trains, enhancing capacity by 20%. CR General Manager R.K. Yadav reported 40% of the work is complete, and the expedited timeline is due to simpler construction compared to past extensions. The upgrade aims to address overcrowding at CSMT, which handles over 1,200 local and 100 long-distance trains daily.
Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) is set to see an important upgrade as Central Railway (CR) authorities fast-track the extension of Platforms 12 and 13. Originally scheduled for completion by December, the deadline has been moved up to September, with work possibly finishing by the end of August. This change is expected to enhance the station's ability to handle passenger volumes and train capacity.
The extension project will increase the length of Platforms 12 and 13 to accommodate 24-coach trains, up from the current 18-coach capacity. This expansion is anticipated to boost the platforms' capacity by 20 percent. The platforms will be extended to lengths ranging from 305 to 382 metres, alongside necessary yard remodelling and the addition of new amenities.
CR General Manager R.K. Yadav recently inspected the site, noting that 40 percent of the work is already completed. A senior CR official confirmed that the expedited timeline is due to the relatively simpler nature of the work compared to previous platform extensions, such as Platforms 10 and 11. The initial December deadline for the project was advanced to November but has now been further shortened.
In June, CR authorities conducted a major 36-hour block to facilitate ongoing upgrades, which included replacing outdated track and signalling systems and upgrading equipment. This work led to several train cancellations and disruptions, affecting local commuters. Nandkumar Deshmukh, President of the Federation of Suburban Rail Passengers Association, has urged the railways to minimise disruptions during future upgrade blocks.
CSMT, one of India's busiest railway stations, handles over 1,200 local trains and approximately 100 long-distance trains daily. With rising passenger numbers during peak travel seasons, the station's capacity upgrades are a critical response to the growing demand and overcrowding issues.
The extension of these platforms is part of a broader effort to improve infrastructure at CSMT, addressing congestion and enhancing overall passenger experience.
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