Readers’ comments: Rejig Mumbai’s train timetables, Aqua Line metro cost too much

This article is interesting and a much-needed issue has been discussed (“Mumbai Commuter Rail division: Some ideas on fixing the commercial capital’s lifeline”). I have been living in Mumbai for the last 72 years and have been a Mumbai local commuter since 1971. The main problem with western and central railway is the time table and stoppages of fast trains. A large section of the population on the western line has moved beyond Borivali and there is a strong need to change the time table.

My suggestions are:

1. Start a shuttle between Borivali (platform number three) and Virar (platform number 1) with 15 minutes frequency.

2. Make all Virar fast trains nonstop between Dadar and Bhayander

3. Extend all Borivali fast trains to Bhayander/Vasai Road.

This will ease crowding in Virar-bound trains, which is a major problem. – Ram Iyer

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The article mentions that the estimated cost for the 33.5 kilometre-long Aqua Line is Rs 37,276 crore, ie Rs 1,000 crore per route-kilometre.

The thumb rule in construction of metro lines across the world, including all costs, is Rs 100 crore per route km for terrestrial lines, Rs 200 crore per route km for overhead lines and Rs.400 crores per km for underground lines. Therefore, we seem to have spent twice as much in...

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