In the interim budget 2024 presented on Thursday, the Mumbai Urban Transport Projects (MUTP) has secured a substantial allocation of Rs 789 crore, signaling a boost for the expansion of Mumbai`s suburban railway network.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman specified the allocation distribution, with Rs 100 crore for MUTP (second phase), Rs 300 crore for MUTP-III, and Rs 389 crore for MUTP-IIIA.

“The budget allocation will further give impetus to MUTP works,” said Subhash Chand Gupta, chairman and managing director of MRVC.

All contracts for 17 station improvement works under the MUTP have been awarded, and Panvel-Karjat new suburban corridor project and Virar-Dahanu quadrupling work were proceeding on schedule, he added.

“We have also started groundwork of the Kalyan-Badlapur quadrupling project and Borivali Virar fifth and sixth lines,” Gupta said.

In the Union budget for FY 23-24, a total of Rs 1100 crore were allocated for MUTP.

Also read: Budget 2024: No changes in tax rates for direct, indirect taxes, says Sitharaman

Nearly 75 lakh commuters travel by suburban locals in Mumbai every day.

Meanwhile, Minister of Railways, Communications, and Electronics & Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw Thursday revealed the key highlights for Western Railway in the latest budget.

The region, comprising Maharashtra and Gujarat, has received record allocations, promising extensive developments in the railway infrastructure.

Record Allocations for Maharashtra and Gujarat:

Maharashtra has been granted a staggering Rs. 15,554 crores, an increase of 13 times compared to the average outlay for 2009-2014.

Gujarat, on the other hand, receives a substantial allocation of Rs. 8,587 crores, marking a substantial 14-fold increase from the average annual outlay during 2009-2014.

Madhya Pradesh is not left behind, securing Rs. 15,143 crores, a remarkable 24 times more than the average outlay for 2009-2014.

Also read: Budget 2024: FM Sitharaman’s shortest budget speech, mentions PM Modi 8 times

Railway Expansion and Upgrades:

The total budget outlay for Indian Railways stands at a whopping Rs. 2,52,000 crores, reflecting the government`s commitment to enhancing the nation`s rail network.

Over the last decade, an impressive 26,000 kilometers of rail network has been added, emphasizing the relentless efforts in expanding connectivity.

Manufacturing prowess is showcased with the production of one Vande Bharat train every week, with these trains boasting over 100 percent capacity utilization. The Amrit Bharat trains are also thriving, running at an impressive 160 percent occupancy.

Notably, the Vande Bharat sleeper train is on the horizon, indicating a continued focus on technological advancements and passenger comfort.

Strategic Corridor Programs:

Sitharaman highlighted three major railway corridor programs that will be implemented: Energy, mineral, and cement corridor; Port-connectivity corridor; High-traffic density corridor.

These corridors are envisioned to enhance logistics efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety for passenger trains.

Significant Allocations for Construction and Development:

The proposed outlay for Western Railway is an impressive Rs. 18,093 crores, showcasing a 12&#37 increase compared to the previous fiscal year.

Maharashtra is set to witness major developments with a notable allocation of Rs. 15,554 crores, ensuring robust growth in the state`s railway infrastructure.

Focus on Mumbai Urban Transportation:

Under the proposed outlay, Mumbai Urban Transportation (MUTP) Works receive substantial attention, with a total allocation of Rs. 788.88 crores.

This allocation is expected to further strengthen Mumbai`s urban railway network.

Key Projects in Maharashtra and Gujarat:

Several major projects are in the pipeline, including quadrupling the Samakhiali-Gandhidham route, a new port connectivity project, and the Bhildi-Viramgam initiative, all contributing to the comprehensive expansion of railway networks.

Investments in Safety and Customer Amenities:

The budget emphasizes safety with allocations for Road Over Bridges, Road Under Bridges, Level Crossings, signaling, and telecommunication.

A significant allocation of Rs. 1,135 crores is dedicated to customer amenities, ensuring improved services and facilities for railway passengers.

Towards a Sustainable Future:

The budget reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability, with an estimated investment of Rs. 93.75 crores in solar power works.

Additionally, infrastructure development for energy-efficient Vande Bharat sleeper trains is in progress.

The proposed budget signals a robust roadmap for the development of the railway sector in Maharashtra and Gujarat, promising enhanced connectivity, upgraded facilities, and a sustainable future.

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