Mumbai’s Western Railway is set to upgrade three key South Mumbai stations, including Mumbai Central, Grant Road, and Charni Road, with new escalators and comprehensive station beautification. Officials announced that these improvements aim to enhance commuter convenience, reduce overcrowding, and create a cleaner, more accessible urban transit environment in one of the city’s busiest suburban and long-distance railway hubs.
The initiative follows discussions between a Cabinet Minister and the Western Railway Chief at the Churchgate headquarters, during which local residents also highlighted persistent challenges around station encroachments. Unauthorized vendors and overcrowding on connecting roads were cited as major issues affecting both pedestrian safety and commuter flow. Senior railway officials confirmed that a structured plan will be implemented to address these problems while ensuring that station facilities meet modern accessibility and aesthetic standards. Currently, Mumbai Central, Grant Road, and Charni Road serve thousands of passengers daily, combining suburban local services with intercity routes. Overcrowded platforms, limited facilities for elderly and differently-abled passengers, and encroachments on adjoining streets have long been noted as urban mobility bottlenecks. By introducing escalators, authorities aim to improve vertical circulation within station premises, particularly benefiting senior citizens and travellers with luggage. Station beautification plans include the removal of illegal stalls, cleaning, and aesthetic upgrades, aligned with wider city initiatives to enhance public spaces.
The Minister emphasised that encroachments around station areas have grown, including informal vendors, which sometimes compromise safety and circulation. Railway authorities have been instructed to coordinate with municipal agencies to ensure enforcement while maintaining inclusivity for legitimate small businesses operating in the vicinity. Plans to complete the stalled footbridge connecting Charni Road station to nearby neighbourhoods are also underway, enhancing pedestrian access and integrating stations into the broader urban fabric. Industry experts note that investments in station infrastructure not only improve commuter experience but also strengthen the city’s public transport system, supporting sustainable mobility and reducing reliance on private vehicles. Beautified stations with modern facilities can encourage greater adoption of rail transport, contributing to lower congestion, reduced emissions, and improved urban resilience. A senior railway official stated that the stations’ reports are being prepared and that phased implementation of escalators and aesthetic improvements will begin once approvals are in place.
The project aligns with broader urban development strategies, combining accessibility, sustainability, and citizen-focused planning. Once completed, the upgrades are expected to enhance safety, convenience, and visual appeal, establishing Mumbai Central, Grant Road, and Charni Road as model stations for South Mumbai commuters.
Escalators Beautification Planned At Mumbai Central, Grant Road, Charni Road Stations