The much-anticipated Borivali–Virar 5th and 6th line project, aimed at decongesting Mumbai’s overcrowded Western Railway suburban network, is steadily progressing, with 15% of the work already completed. Spearheaded by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation Ltd. (MRVC) under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project Phase IIIA (MUTP-IIIA), the Rs 2,184 crore initiative is targeted for completion by March 2028, subject to timely land acquisition and resolution of external factors.

Once completed, the project is expected to significantly enhance the capacity and reliability of the suburban railway network by enabling the separation of suburban and long-distance trains, ensuring smoother and more efficient operations. Presently, the stretch between Borivali and Virar has four tracks—two for slow locals and two shared by fast local services and long-distance trains. The new project will provide a dedicated corridor for fast local trains, thereby allowing an increase in the number of services.

When asked about the current status, an MRVC official stated that the track alignment has been finalized following a comprehensive drone survey. Detailed estimates have been sanctioned, and all General Arrangement Drawings (GADs) for important, major, and minor bridges have received the necessary approvals. A Design Consultant (DDC) has been appointed, and the preparation of detailed designs is currently underway.

"Out of the total 1.81 hectares of required private land, awards have been issued for 1.51 hectares, with possession already received for 0.53 hectares. The remaining portion is expected soon. Additionally, approximately 0.66 hectares of government land has been allotted, with payment completed, while acquisition of around 13.62 hectares of salt pan land is underway following the submission of a formal proposal," the official added.

On the environmental front, Stage-II forest clearance has been secured, and the compensatory mangrove plantation was completed by January 2025. Permission to work in mangrove areas has also been granted, paving the way for civil works to advance in stretches such as Dahisar–Mira Road and Naigaon–Vasai.

Speaking about ongoing civil works, the official mentioned that relocation of structures is in progress at several stations including Dahisar, Mira Road, Bhayander, Naigaon, and Vasai Road. Platform and Foot Over Bridge (FOB) works are actively being carried out at Dahisar (3 FOBs), Naigaon (3 FOBs), and Nallasopara (2 FOBs). In February 2025, key contracts for bridges and earthworks were awarded, and contractors have begun mobilization and preliminary works, especially on Important Bridges No. 73 and 75, along with a Road Over Bridge (ROB).

“With the city’s suburban railway network serving millions of passengers daily, the Borivali–Virar 5th and 6th line project is poised to become a game-changer—promising a more reliable and efficient commuting experience while enhancing operational flexibility for Western Railway,” said Sunil Udasi, Chief Public Relations Officer of MRVC.