Suburban Rail Gets a Major Push: ₹1777 Crore Allocated for MUTP in Union Budget 2025-26

Mumbai, 17 May 2025: In a major thrust to Mumbai’s suburban railway infrastructure, the Union Government has allocated ₹1777 crore for the Mumbai Urban Transport Projects (MUTP) in the Union Budget for 2025-26. This allocation represents a remarkable 125% increase from last year’s grant of ₹789 crore, signaling the Centre’s continued focus on strengthening public transport in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

The Government of Maharashtra will contribute an equivalent amount, doubling the financial injection into critical suburban rail projects that aim to decongest train services, improve passenger connectivity, and upgrade overall travel experience for lakhs of daily commuters.

Officials confirmed that even in the previous financial year (2024-25), there was no dearth of funds for MUTP initiatives, ensuring seamless progress of works. Moreover, the practice of supplementing budgets with revised grants during the final quarter ensures timely financial support wherever necessary, preventing delays in execution.

Chairman and Managing Director of Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC), Shri Vilas Wadekar, expressed optimism over the enhanced funding. “With this robust financial backing, key MUTP projects — including new suburban corridors, modernized stations, and upgraded rail infrastructure — are progressing efficiently. These upgrades will bring commuters closer to a suburban railway network that is faster, safer, and significantly more reliable,” he said.

MUTP Projects in Focus:
The funds will be used to fast-track various components of MUTP, including:

• Construction of new elevated and at-grade corridors

• Expansion of existing rail lines to reduce overcrowding

• Modernization of suburban stations with improved passenger amenities

• Introduction of advanced signaling and safety systems

A Vision for a Modern Transit System
The MUTP, jointly implemented by MRVC and the State Government, plays a critical role in transforming Mumbai’s ageing suburban railway system into a modern, high-capacity, and commuter-friendly transit network. With consistent financial backing and coordinated efforts, the future of suburban commuting in Mumbai looks increasingly promising.