Mumbai Suburban Rail Set for Major Overhaul with Fully AC Vande Metro Trains in 12, 15 & 18-Coach Formats

Mumbai, September 8: Mumbai’s suburban railway system is set to undergo a transformative overhaul with the planned introduction of fully air-conditioned Vande Metro local trains in 12, 15, and 18-coach formations. This ambitious initiative falls under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project (MUTP) Phase III and IIIA, led by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation Ltd (MRVC), and is aimed at reducing chronic overcrowding and significantly enhancing commuter experience across the city’s densely packed rail corridors.

MRVC has floated an international tender valued at approximately ₹21,000 crore for the procurement of 2,856 air-conditioned coaches. The scope of the project is extensive, including the supply of coaches, comprehensive maintenance over a span of 35 years, and the construction of two new state-of-the-art maintenance depots—one each for the Central and Western Railways. This initiative marks one of the largest investments in suburban rail infrastructure in India and promises to bring global standards to Mumbai’s lifeline.

The tender process is scheduled to begin with bid submissions starting on December 8, 2025, and the bid opening set for December 22, 2025. As per officials, the first prototype of these modern rakes is expected to arrive in Mumbai within two years from the date of awarding the contract.

Each Vande Metro coach will be fully air-conditioned and vestibule-connected to allow seamless movement between compartments. Designed specifically for suburban operations, these trains will be equipped with advanced features such as automatic door-closing systems, rapid acceleration and deceleration capabilities, cushioned seating, mobile charging points, onboard infotainment, and designated vendor compartments with independent air-conditioning ducts. These enhancements are expected to redefine daily commuting for millions, offering not just comfort but also efficiency and safety.

Safety remains a central focus in the design of the Vande Metro rakes, which will come fitted with international-standard braking systems and optimized layouts to facilitate better passenger flow. With the capability to run at speeds of up to 130 kmph, these trains will ensure quicker and more punctual service across the city’s suburban network. Additionally, the HVAC systems will be upgraded to provide consistent cooling performance, even under Mumbai’s notoriously humid and harsh climatic conditions, thereby making the daily commute more bearable throughout the year.

In an official statement, Vilas Sopan Wadekar, Chairman and Managing Director of MRVC, emphasized the transformative nature of the project. He stated that the introduction of these new-generation trains represents a massive leap forward in Mumbai’s urban transport infrastructure. According to him, the project will not only enhance the quality of service but also elevate safety, energy efficiency, and overall commuter satisfaction.

With the rollout of the Vande Metro project, Mumbai’s suburban railway system is poised to enter a new era—one that aligns with the evolving expectations of modern commuters and the long-term vision of sustainable urban transport.