Mumbai-Kasara Third Line Now Commissioned!
Central Railway has officially commissioned the new 13.53-kilometer Mumbai-Kasara third line between Khardi and Kasara. This vital infrastructure project, a key part of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP), is set to significantly enhance rail operations in the region.
Successful Speed Trials and Safety Clearance
The new section underwent rigorous testing to ensure passenger safety. During recent trials, the line achieved a successful speed of 117 kilometers per hour. Following a comprehensive inspection and clearance by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), the line has been authorized for regular operations at a maximum speed of 100 kilometers per hour.
Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety, Guru Prakash, inaugurated the Khardi to Kasara section on October 17, 2026. During the inspection process on October 17 and 18, the CRS commended the high construction quality, the robust track infrastructure, and the implemented safety standards.
Engineering Feats in Hilly Terrain
Constructing the line involved overcoming significant geographical hurdles. The project required extensive engineering efforts to manage the challenging hilly terrain. Key technical achievements included:
- Construction of an electrified line through difficult landscapes.
- Strengthening of bridges to accommodate the expanded network.
- Major earthworks and track installation.
- Installation of modern signaling and electrification systems.
- Substantial upgrades to the Khardi and Kasara railway yards.
Boosting Efficiency and Reducing Congestion
The addition of this third line is designed to alleviate the heavy congestion on the busy Mumbai-Kasara corridor. By providing extra capacity, the project will facilitate:
- Smoother movement for local, express, and freight trains.
- Increased operational flexibility for the railway network.
- Improved punctuality for commuters and freight services.
Dr. Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, stated that this project marks a significant milestone in providing safer, more efficient, and reliable services to passengers.
To finalize the integration, a 12-hour traffic block was executed on the night of October 17-18, 2026. This allowed for essential track connections and the remodeling of the Kasara yard to support the expanded capacity.