Mumbai commuters will have to wait a bit longer for the new AC local trains. While the Indian Railways has approved the purchase of 238 new air-conditioned trains for the Central, Western, and Harbour lines, the tendering process has faced some delays. These trains are part of a larger plan to modernize the suburban network and reduce overcrowding.
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When will the 238 new AC locals start and why the delay?
The online bidding process for these trains, which was originally scheduled for May 18, has been extended to July 19. Similarly, the final date for submitting documents and opening e-tenders has been moved from June 2 to August 3. Railway officials stated that the delay happened because global bidders had many technical questions and the railways needed to make some operational changes to the design.
What are the key features and costs of these new trains?
The project involves an investment of over ₹19,293 crore. A total of 47 trains will be built under MUTP-3 and 191 trains under MUTP-3A. These trains will be faster and safer than previous versions.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | 130 km/h |
| Safety | Automatic doors to prevent falling |
| Comfort | Cushioned seats and modern HVAC system |
| Facilities | Mobile charging points and infotainment system |
| Accessibility | Special space for wheelchairs and disabled passengers |
| Other | Air-conditioned vendor compartments |
What is the long-term plan for Mumbai Local trains?
Under the vision of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, the goal is to eventually make most of the Mumbai local trains air-conditioned, similar to the Vande Bharat model. The Mumbai Rail Vikas Corporation (MRVC) is working on a plan to gradually replace non-AC trains with AC ones. Recently, there has been a 48.5% increase in passengers using AC locals between January and May 2026, showing a high demand for these services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many new AC trains are coming to Mumbai?
A total of 238 new AC local trains are planned for the Central, Western, and Harbour lines under the MUTP-3 and MUTP-3A projects.
Will the ticket prices increase for these new AC trains?
According to the announcement made by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, there will be no increase in fares for second-class passengers.