MUMBAI SUBURBAN

Mumbai Suburban,  one of India’s most populous cities, relies on a transport network that functions as the metropolis’s circulatory system, ferrying millions across its sprawling neighborhoods daily. The local trains – rightfully dubbed as the district’s lifeline – form the backbone of this network, while buses, auto-rickshaws, and the newer metro system complete the transit ecosystem. This intricate web of transportation does more than facilitate movement; it mirrors Mumbai's economic vitality and social fabric.

Yet beneath this essential service lies a daily struggle. During peak hours, the system strains under the weight of its passengers, with overcrowded trains and buses becoming a powerful symbol of both Mumbai’s dynamism and its infrastructure challenges. As the district continues its rapid expansion, these pressures on the transport network highlight a broader story: one of a growing metropolis grappling with the demands of its ambitious population while racing to modernize its urban infrastructure.

Transportation networks have always been the lifeblood of human civilization, weaving together distant regions through the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures while nurturing the growth of commerce. Perhaps, few cities embody this symbiotic relationship more than Mumbai, whose identity is inseparable from its bustling local trains, historic ports, and the relentless pace of its daily life. Today recognized as India’s financial capital, Mumbai’s commercial story is often traced to its colonial era — a narrative that begins with the British receiving the islands as a dowry and transforming them into a bustling trade center.

This familiar narrative unfolds through colonial touchstones - Portuguese sailors christening it “Bom Bahia” (meaning good bay), British merchants developing its ports, and railways establishing it as India's commercial gateway. Yet this narrative overlooks a far older story of trade and exchange that shaped this region long before European ships reached its shores, one shaped by local merchants, monks, and dynasties.

As archaeologist Kurush Dalal points out in an interview with Mid-day (2022), "From the 1st century onwards, the islands that became Bombay were already a trade centre." He emphasizes that the evidence is not just found in historical texts but is also embedded in the region's enduring monuments — particularly the Kanheri, Mahakali, and Mandapeshwar caves which are scattered across the suburban landscape. These ancient structures, Dalal notes, could only have been constructed with significant economic resources and well-established social networks.  The Kanheri Caves, with inscriptions in Pahlavi (the Persian script) and even Japanese, stand as proof of a trade network that extended well beyond India’s borders.

Dalal further highlights that during the 13th century, under the reign of Raja Bimba of the Bimba dynasty, Arab traders were already familiar with these shores, suggesting that Mumbai’s role as a commercial hub predates colonial trade by centuries. This indicates the existence of far-reaching maritime and land trade networks well before European involvement. 

These stone corridors and weathered inscriptions perhaps reveal something significant about Mumbai's character - long before it became a modern metropolis, this was already a place where commerce and culture flowed together, where merchants and monks shared the same paths, and where local life also had connections to the wider world.

While these ancient trade routes speak to Mumbai’s vast commercial networks, the city’s pre-colonial transportation system was similarly vital. These early transport systems paint a vivid picture of pre-colonial life - revealing not just how people moved through the city, but who transported them and in what manner. At the heart of this system thrived a diverse fleet of animal-drawn vehicles, each crafted with its own distinctive name, design, and purpose.

S. Edwardes (1909) records that “bullock hackery and palanquins” dominated the region’s earliest modes of transit. Alongside these, the streets were traversed by horse-drawn “shigrams", " bullock-drawn “reeklas,” and palanquins - each serving as common modes of conveyance. These vehicles perhaps represent the ingenuity of early urban planning and the diverse needs of the district’s inhabitants.

As the transport system evolved, new vehicles emerged alongside other colonial developments within the region. According to Pratik Dave, the “gharry,” a horse-drawn vehicle, became a familiar sight in the urban landscape. Interestingly, in 1882, a modified version known as the "Victoria" was introduced, bringing with it a more organized approach to public transport. During the establishment of this vehicle, it is noted that approximately 30 dedicated Victoria stands were established throughout the city's streets.  These developments marked a significant shift in the transportation landscape, perhaps giving way to the complex public transport system that Mumbai relies on today.

Mumbai’s railways have become emblematic of the region itself. These iron tracks brought with them a new factor of speed and pace, a rhythm that many remark became a defining feature of life in Mumbai. Indeed, more significantly, Mumbai is where India's railway story began, leaving a legacy rich with ambitious plans, determined efforts, and transformative outcomes.

To comprehend the railways' profound impact, one must understand Mumbai's unique geography and development. The city proper originally comprised seven islands, while the suburbs were part of the separate, forested Salsette Island. These distinct territories, shaped by different histories and patterns of development, would eventually merge into a unified metropolitan region through the connecting force of the railways.

The railway saga began with the Bombay Great Eastern Railway in 1853, marking a pivotal moment in urban development. While Mumbai's city center buzzed with activity, its suburban expanse – the forested Salsette Island – remained largely untouched. The railway network would soon become the catalyst that transformed this landscape, spurring suburban growth and reshaping the entire region.

Historical records, such as The Gazetteer of Bombay City & Island (1909), illustrate how the railway system contributed to the surge in population and urban sprawl. The demand for housing in the overcrowded city center pushed people toward the more affordable suburbs. The expansion of the railway network made commuting easier, giving rise to a mass migration to the outskirts, especially in Salsette. As noted by S. Edwardes in the Gazetteer (1909), the pressure on urban housing prompted many to seek refuge in the suburbs, with the railways acting as a lifeline for these new settlers.

In response to this rapid suburbanization, the railway system underwent significant upgrades to accommodate the surge in commuters. Over a span of nine years, the addition of 19 new local trains was recorded.

Along with these expansions came improvements in the quality of trains, as older, less efficient four-wheeled coaches were replaced by modern bogie carriages, resembling the train structures used today. This shift not only increased capacity but also made local commuting more efficient and comfortable, setting the foundation for the extensive suburban network that Mumbai relies on today.

The roots of Mumbai’s railway system can be traced to the plans laid as early as 1843, when routes like Kurla to Thane were envisioned under the Bombay Great Eastern Railway name. However, the task of constructing the railway was far from simple, as the hilly terrain posed significant challenges. Despite these difficulties, the first 21-mile stretch from Bori Bunder to Thane was completed and inaugurated on 16 April, 1853. The event was celebrated as a public holiday and marked the beginning of Mumbai’s railway history. The railway network, initially managed by the Great Indian Peninsula Railway, soon became essential for commercial activities, creating widespread employment opportunities and facilitating the transport of goods and people. The system eventually evolved into the Western and Central Railway divisions of Indian Railways.

Today, Mumbai’s suburban railway system remains the lifeline of the city. The study “Engendering Mumbai’s Suburban Railway System” (2016) highlights how the local trains are the most affordable and accessible mode of transport for the working and middle classes. The railway network serves as the primary transportation system for millions of commuters, connecting the farthest suburban areas to the bustling heart of the city.  The railway network, widely utilized by daily commuters, operates through various zonal divisions and routes, functioning as the primary public transportation system in Mumbai. The rail lines carry a varied mix of commuters each day, ranging from bhaji wallahs, dabbawalas, and street sellers in the luggage compartment to students and employees in the others.

Mumbai’s local trains can be daunting for newcomers, but effective strategies exist for easier navigation. Commuters employ various tricks to streamline their travel, including quick exits and entries within 20-30 seconds. At the train doors, it is common to check with nearby passengers if they are alighting at the same station by asking, “Aap yaha utar rahe ho?” (are you getting down here?) If not, ensure that their bags do not obstruct the path. It is advisable to hang bags in front to enhance mobility and minimize the risk of pickpocketing. Typically, four people sit on a bench designed for three, so securing a seat during long journeys or peak hours is essential whenever the opportunity arises.

On the Central Railway line, peak travel times occur from 7 to 11:30 am (Thane/Kalyan to CST) and 4 to 9 pm (CST to Kalyan/Karjat). For shorter trips within the Mulund-Kurla area, choosing a Thane local is recommended, as it generally experiences less congestion compared to trains heading toward Kalyan, Karjat, and Badlapur.

Mumbai's local trains are classified into Fast and Slow types. Fast trains, which make fewer stops, often run 10-15 minutes late after the morning rush, resulting in increased crowding. Slow trains, stopping at every station, usually run 3-5 minutes late. Therefore, if a crowd is observed during non-peak hours, it may indicate delays or cancellations.

Within the Central Line of the Mumbai Suburban district, Kurla and Ghatkopar serve as vital transportation hubs. Kurla Junction connects the Central Line with the Harbour Line, facilitating travel from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to various destinations, including Vashi, Belapur, and Panvel.

Ghatkopar Junction is notable for its metro connectivity through the Mumbai Metro Blue Line 1 (the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar corridor), which enhances east-west travel within the city.

In peak hours, the ladies' dabbas on suburban trains can be chaotic with pushing, shouting, and disputes. Still, these are spaces reserved for women solely who make up according to the 2023 Season ticket sales data, around 25% of commuters on suburban trains and 35% of BEST bus passengers. Women have three dedicated second-class coaches at the start, middle, and end of local trains, plus two first-class coaches next to gender-neutral ones, which are cramped during rush hours as they are less than half the size of a normal dabba.  

The introduction of the “Ladies Special" train service by the Western Railways in 1992 was a pivotal moment in Mumbai's public transportation history. Moreover, the initiative is considered to be the first of its kind in the world, offering a safer and more comfortable option for the increasing number of female workers.

Around 30 years ago, locals say that the CR & WR operated two ladies special trains during peak hours: one in the morning and another around 5:30 to 6:00 pm. Daily women commuters traveling from CSMT to Mulund during that period recall how, despite being crowded, these trains provided a welcome respite, allowing them to stand comfortably during their journey. Currently, the ladies special trains that operate on the Central Line include Kalyan-CSMT (8:41 am), train number - 97026 and CSMT-Kalyan (6:07 pm), train number - 97135. These special trains run on all days except Sunday.

In 2013, an initiative introduced on International Women’s Day added three coaches exclusively for women at the Kalyan end of the train. This arrangement grouped all five ladies' coaches together at the northern end of the train.

Other than trains, efforts have been made to create women spaces in Railway platforms too. The Mamta Kaksh, is one of the non-revenue initiatives undertaken by the Central Railways in collaboration to provide and create personal care centers and parent-friendly spaces.

In 2017, a significant milestone was reached with the launch of the first broad gauge air-conditioned EMU suburban train journey from Borivali station. Since then, the Western Railway has operated around 96 AC services in Mumbai, serving approximately one lakh passengers daily. The Central Railway follows suit with 66 AC services, catering to about 56,000 riders each day.

AC locals on the Central Railway primarily serve railway employees and first-class passengers from regular local trains. While they provide a much-needed escape from the daily hustle and overcrowding, they are frequently subject to delays of at least 30 minutes, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by commuters.

Recent updates to railway platforms and trains include the conversion of a luggage coach into a senior citizens' compartment by 2026, prompted by a 2022 PIL filed in the Bombay High Court. This change addresses the daily usage of local trains by approximately 50,000 senior citizens, for whom the 14 reserved seats often prove insufficient during peak hours. The PIL highlighted that, despite reservations, non-senior citizens frequently occupy these seats.^[4]

Similarly, compartments reserved for persons with disabilities and cancer patients face the same issue, highlighting a broader problem with accessibility. As noted by Shruti Gokarn in her article on accessibility, while railway authorities have implemented some improvements, the actual execution of these measures remains inadequate, leaving the experiences and voices of disabled individuals marginalized in the discourse of travel.^[5]

Despite the presence of tactile tiles and auditory signals, ongoing challenges such as damaged infrastructure, poorly illuminated coach numbers, and inadequate announcements about train configurations continue to affect the daily experiences of disabled individuals. At Mulund Station, a Braille map for visually challenged passengers is available near the ticket counter. However, there is only one escalator that goes only upwards, and some stairs are unsafe or broken.

This highlights the persistent barriers and inadequate accessibility measures within Mumbai's railway system. Despite some improvements, significant challenges remain, which hinder the daily travel experiences of disabled passengers. There is a pressing need for more effective implementation of accessibility initiatives to ensure safe and equitable travel for all.

Vital apps serve as essential tools for commuters in Mumbai, seamlessly integrating into daily travel routines. For daily commuters, this app aids navigation of the city's transit system. While bus schedules may be unpredictable, the app provides detailed information for train journeys, including timings, destinations, stops, and fare rates. It also updates users on mega blocks, usually scheduled on Sundays, which affect train frequency. Additionally, the app clarifies whether trains are Fast or Slow and offers platform guidance.

The evolution of ticketing systems in Mumbai's local trains reflects the city's growing need for efficiency and convenience in public transport. Initially, commuters relied heavily on traditional ticket counters, often facing long queues and delays, especially during peak hours. The introduction of the Smart Card system aimed to alleviate some of these issues by allowing travelers to preload funds and swipe their cards for quicker access to tickets.

In 2019, the launch of the One-Touch Automatic Ticket Vending Machine (ATVM) marked a significant advancement in this evolution. The ATVM not only improved upon the Smart Card system but also provided a more user-friendly interface for purchasing both daily and seasonal tickets. With ATVMs, commuters can quickly obtain tickets without the hassle of waiting in long lines, thereby streamlining the entire ticketing process.

Unlike major stations such as Thane, Kalyan, Dadar, or CST, express and long-distance trains do not halt at Central Railway (CR) junctions. Instead, these trains primarily stop at terminuses like Lokmanya Tilak Kurla Terminus (LTT) and Bandra Terminus.

It’s important to note that Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) in Kurla and Kurla Station are two distinct railway stations, separated by approximately 2-3 km. Bandra Station and Bandra Terminus, situated on the Western Railway lines, are closer together. The key distinction is that Kurla Station serves as a regular suburban railway station, while LTT functions as a major terminus for long-distance trains.

Since its launch, the metro has gained popularity and become a vital part of daily commuting for Mumbai locals. Ongoing construction in the Central Railway line is anticipated to enhance accessibility, bringing commuters closer to their destinations.

Although the metro is relatively crowded, it is less so than local trains during peak hours, which run from 8 to 10 am and 6 to 8 pm. Commuter density fluctuates between Ghatkopar and Versova throughout the day, with office workers and students being the main users. Metro connectivity significantly reduces travel time and improves access to key areas.

The monorail, which began operations in 2014 and became fully functional in 2019, is less crowded and often has a more family-oriented vibe. However, it struggles to attract commuters due to its limited route through residential areas, lacking connections to major corporate parks in Kurla and Bandra. In contrast, the metro effectively connects residential neighborhoods with industrial hubs in Vikhroli, Andheri, and beyond, making it the preferred choice for many. Both systems now utilize a simple QR ticketing process, enhancing convenience for passengers.

The creation of the metro system in Mumbai has not been without controversy, particularly regarding land use and environmental impact. The “Save Aarey” protests, which began in late 2014, were triggered by plans from the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) to build a car shed on nearly 75 acres of land in Aarey Forest. Activists discovered that approximately 2,298 trees would be cut down for the project, sparking protests from local women and adivasis, along with legal objections to the tree removal.

The creation of the Aqua Line or rather the Underground Metro in Mumbai has raised significant concerns amongst some locals, particularly due to the recurring issues of flooding and waterlogging. Excessive flooding in the city stems from heavy rains and high tides, especially, as many say, during the time of Amavasya and Gurupoornima. These conditions disrupt transportation and daily life, leading to pothole-ridden roads every monsoon season.

The erratic rainfall and tidal patterns have strained Mumbai's infrastructure, which was not designed to cope with such issues. Kurla, in particular, experiences severe waterlogging, and residents argue that the construction of the Bandra-Kurla Complex exacerbated the problem by reducing natural drainage areas, causing water to accumulate in low-lying regions.

During these conditions, commuters often endure long walks home as transportation systems come to a halt. One local recounted walking from their office to home, relying on a few lifts along the way, and arriving at 1 am only to return to work the next day. This story underscores the common struggles many face in the district and highlights the urgent need for improvements in travel experiences during the rainy season.

The bus transportation network in Mumbai Suburban is managed by B.E.S.T., T.M.T, and N.M.M.T., while intercity travel is overseen by M.S.R.T.C. Together, these fleets constitute the largest bus network in the region. After nearly a decade of efforts to modernize the ticketing system, apps like Chalo and MSRTC have become essential tools for commuters, allowing seamless e-ticket booking for B.E.S.T. and N.M.M.T. buses, with the MSRTC app facilitating intercity travel across Maharashtra.

In addition to digitizing ticketing, the bus fleet has embraced sustainability through the introduction of electric buses and the Bus Card System. The much-anticipated return of the iconic double-decker buses has been particularly popular among millennials, although they currently operate only on the Kurla-Santa Cruz route.

Despite rising fares for ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber, public transport remains remarkably affordable. For example, an old resident of Mumbai traveling from Mulund Colony to Ghatkopar - R Mall faced an auto fare of around 220 rupees when taking the highway route. In contrast, her return trip on a B.E.S.T. bus cost her a mere 10 rupees, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of public transport in Mumbai.

B.E.S.T. buses maintain low fares—5 rupees for 5 km and 10 rupees for 10 km—making them an affordable option for commuters. Their AC buses, in particular, have gained popularity for offering comfort at reasonable prices. However, concerns have been raised about their performance in hilly areas, where gear-shifting problems and difficulties climbing slopes can lead to significantly longer travel times.

Additionally, the heavy crowds that characterize Mumbai's population during peak hours can make the experience especially challenging. Locals often express frustration at the stifling conditions inside the buses at these times, highlighting the need for continued improvements in the public transport system to accommodate the city’s dense and dynamic demographic.

Auto, three wheeled vehicles, are a common mode of transportation in the district. Autowallahs typically adhere to the metered fare system, particularly in the Kurla taluka of the city. It's rare to encounter an autowallah who insists on charging inflated prices. The fare fluctuates depending on the time of day: during the day it's 23 rupees, and during the night after 12:00 am to 5:00 am it is 29 rupees. Still, there have been some cases where the rickshaw meters display the night fare from 11 to 11:30 pm itself.

As night falls, ridesharing services such as Ola and Uber become essential in suburbs like Mulund, Bhandup, and Chembur. After 10 pm, it is increasingly rare to find rickshaw drivers not affiliated with these platforms. Many office-goers, particularly those working late shifts, turn to these services for their reliability and ease of use.

In addition to autos, shared autos are also commonly found near station areas. These vehicles operate on fixed routes and serve multiple passengers, offering an economical option for travel within localities. Fares generally range from 10 to 20 rupees, making shared autos a practical choice for daily job seekers.

In addition to public transport, private companies have emerged in Mumbai’s mass transit landscape to meet the evolving needs of commuters. One notable example is Cityflo, founded in 2015, which offers luxury bus services aimed at office-goers. This highlights the increasing role of private enterprises in the transportation sector.

The rise of such alternatives is driven by the city’s growing population and heightened commuting demands, which have led to overcrowded public transport. Many commuters seek more comfortable and reliable options, and private services often provide enhanced amenities and flexibility in routes and schedules. Additionally, Mumbai’s diverse business zones, including thriving IT and other industries, contribute to a population that can afford these premium commuting options.

Today, Mumbai is served by two major airports: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) in Sahar and the domestic terminal at Santacruz. Together, they form a bustling hub of international and domestic air travel, connecting millions of passengers to destinations around the globe.

Mumbai's aviation journey began when J.R.D. Tata made history by landing a Puss Moth on the Juhu airstrip, marking the city's entry into aviation. This milestone featured a modest terminal and control tower, with night landings often relying on kerosene lights for guidance.

Over the years, as India’s fleet of registered aircraft grew, air travel remained largely the privilege of the affluent, with limited domestic routes. After gaining independence, the Civil Aviation Department expanded the network, leading to the establishment of several aerodromes, including in smaller cities.

The Santacruz airport, initially built as an RAF base in the 1930s, played a vital role during World War II. After the war, it transitioned to civil aviation, repurposing old hangars into domestic and international terminals. Air India even had its own dedicated terminal.

As Mumbai evolved into an urban hub, the demand for modern facilities increased. The Sahar airport was developed as a new international terminal, opening in the 1980s and becoming a significant part of Mumbai's identity as a global travel gateway, reflecting the city's dynamic growth and connectivity.

Mumbai’s landscape has long been shaped by its connection to the sea, which historically played a vital role in travel and occupation. Although many might think of water transport as a thing of the past, it wasn’t that long ago that residents of Juhu relied solely on boats to reach Andheri and Bandra. As noted by Sandeep Dahisarkar (2020) in his article, writes that people living in Juhu had no other commuting option; they would have to wade through knee-high water during low tide and take a boat at high tide to reach nearby Parle—an everyday reality just 75 years ago.

Today, the use of boats for commuting has significantly decreased, with road transport now dominating daily travel. However, ferry services still operate between Versova Jetty (Andheri) and Madh Jetty (Malad), providing a quicker alternative for local commuters. The ferry ride is considerably faster than traveling by road, saving passengers at least an hour on their journey.

Ferries run regularly from 6:00 am to 12:00 am, and the ride costs between 5 to 10 rupees, making it an affordable option for many. This mode of transport not only offers convenience but also helps connect communities along the coastline, highlighting the ongoing relevance of water transport in Mumbai’s transit landscape.

Mumbai's media scene is marked by a unique blend of traditional and modern publications that cater to a diverse population. Major newspapers like mid-day, Hindustan Times, and Times of India dominate the market, but the city's local press also thrives, especially in regional languages such as Gujarati and Urdu. This reflects a growing trend where local voices gain prominence, addressing the specific needs and interests of communities. Publications like Gurjarmat have not only established themselves as reliable sources of local news but also play a crucial role in cultural preservation by focusing on regional issues and celebrating local traditions.

Local newspapers foster a sense of community engagement by providing insights that larger publications might overlook. For instance, Voice of Ghatkopar emphasizes local events, advertisements, and social issues relevant to its readership. This focus on hyper-local content helps bridge gaps within communities and ensures that residents stay informed about their immediate surroundings. Additionally, initiatives like Home Times, a multilingual e-newspaper, highlight the linguistic diversity of Mumbai and cater to various demographics, making news accessible to a broader audience. This trend not only enriches the media landscape but also strengthens community ties.

The shift toward digital media is another significant trend shaping Mumbai's newspapers. Publications are increasingly adopting online formats, responding to changing consumption patterns among readers. E-newspapers like Home Times and Citizens Matter exemplify this adaptation, offering multilingual content that resonates with the city's cosmopolitan character. This transition to digital platforms allows for quicker dissemination of news and enhances reader engagement through interactive features. Moreover, the emphasis on digital formats indicates a shift toward a more inclusive media environment, catering to younger audiences and tech-savvy residents.

Mumbai, like many urban centers, is dominated by outdoor advertising, with billboards showcasing everything from real estate to smartphones and political campaigns. However, the landscape of billboard advertising took a dramatic turn following the tragic Ghatkopar incident on 13 May, 2023, when a massive billboard collapsed, leading to serious consequences.

This tragedy underscored the often-overlooked safety concerns surrounding hoarding placements. The collapse exposed significant flaws in the regulation of outdoor advertising, prompting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to issue notices for the removal of unauthorized hoardings and take legal action against the responsible agency. The incident sparked a public outcry, revealing systemic issues in enforcing safety standards for billboard construction and installation.

In the wake of this event, citizens and NGOs have pushed for enhanced safety measures and stricter oversight within the billboard advertising sector. Numerous suggestions have been made to improve safety protocols, emphasizing the need for accountability in design and placement.

As the city grapples with the aftermath and has begun removing unsafe billboards, many locals hope that the future of outdoor advertising in Mumbai may shift toward more responsible practices that prioritize public safety, reflecting community concerns and fostering a culture of accountability in advertising.