The ambitious Borivali–Virar 5th and 6th line project, meant to separate suburban and long-distance train operations on Mumbai’s overcrowded Western Railway corridor, is crawling — with just 18 per cent physical progress nearly two years after work began.
The Rs 2184-crore project, part of MUTP–III A, promises to add 26 km of dedicated suburban tracks between Borivali and Virar, easing congestion and improving punctuality for over 35 lakh daily commuters. But a mix of land disputes, environmental restrictions, and legal delays has kept construction scattered and slow.
“There was even a stay on one major bridge, which we managed to get vacated only recently,” said an MRVC official. “We’re clearing every hurdle, but progress remains challenging.”
Slow but steady groundwork
Officials said the detailed estimate has been sanctioned, and drone surveys have finalised the alignment. Bridge drawings (GADs) are approved, and the Design Development Consultant is finalising designs. Work has begun on two key bridges, while tenders for earthwork between Dahisar and Vasai Road have been invited.
However, the pace remains sluggish due to pending land acquisition and environmental clearances. Of the 1.81 hectares of private land required, 1.40 ha has been acquired; the rest is locked in litigation. Another 13.62 hectares of salt pan land remains under complex acquisition and environmental review.
Green hurdles and gradual gains
Both Stage I and II forest clearances have been granted by the MoEF&CC, and work in mangrove areas has been allowed under strict compensatory plantation and monitoring conditions mandated by the Bombay High Court and the Mangrove Cell.
Visible progress can be seen in the foot overbridge and platform extension works at Dahisar, Naigaon, and Nallasopara.
The dual-line expansion will be a game-changer for Western Railway, enabling smoother train segregation, better punctuality, and enhanced safety.
“We’ve crossed major hurdles,” an MRVC official added. “But the next 12 months will decide if this project can finally pick up pace.”
