Bandra Terminus Expansion: Western Railway Demolishes 94 Structures
Western Railway demolishes 94 structures in Garib Nagar to expand Bandra Terminus, adding more platforms and capacity for long-distance trains.
Western Railway has officially kicked off the massive Bandra Terminus expansion project by initiating the demolition of 94 structures in Garib Nagar, Bandra (East), Mumbai. The enforcement action, which took place on Friday, October 30, 2026, clears the way for critical infrastructure upgrades designed to transform the terminal into a high-capacity railway hub.
Legal Mandate and Resident Rehabilitation
The demolition follows a specific directive from the Bombay High Court issued on October 23, 2026. The court had ordered eligible residents to vacate their premises within one week, with railway authorities tasked to complete the clearing process within 48 hours of that deadline. This latest enforcement action follows a broader demolition campaign that took place in May 2026.
To ensure a smooth transition, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) played a crucial role. The 94 structures that were previously spared were held to allow the MMRDA to facilitate the rehabilitation of project-affected families. The MMRDA has confirmed that all 94 eligible families have already been allocated and provided with possession of permanent alternative housing.
Upgrading Infrastructure: From 7 to 10 Platforms
The clearance of this land is essential for railway safety and the execution of a major master plan. The Bandra Terminus is earmarked for a significant infrastructure overhaul, including:
- New Platform Construction: The addition of a new platform, specifically designated as PF-8.
- Platform Expansion: Increasing the total number of platforms from seven to ten.
- Stabling Facilities: The development of expanded stabling facilities to accommodate more trains.
Boosting Long-Distance Connectivity
These upgrades are designed to enhance passenger movement, improve waiting areas, and ultimately facilitate the operation of 50 additional long-distance mail and express trains from the Mumbai region. By increasing the capacity of the terminus, Western Railway aims to significantly strengthen both suburban and long-distance connectivity for travelers.