MUMBAI: Western Railway is planning to propose the setting up of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region’s largest long-distance railway terminal at Kandivali, a project aimed at easing congestion at Mumbai Central and Bandra Terminus while creating capacity for 54 additional mail and express trains every day.The proposal is still in the formulation stage internally, and it is learnt that once it is finalised, Western Railway will seek the Defence Ministry’s approval for the transfer of the land identified for the project.Sources in the Railways said the new terminal could cater to around one lakh additional passengers daily and improve connectivity for travellers heading to Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Around 80% of Mumbai’s long-distance trains currently originate from or terminate at Mumbai Central and Bandra Terminus, leaving little room to introduce new services.The proposed terminal is planned on a 1,100-metre by 400-metre plot near Kandivali Goods Yard, which railway officials say is large enough to accommodate nine platforms, pit lines and train maintenance facilities. The land, however, belongs to the Defence Ministry. A joint inspection of the site was conducted on February 11, 2025, following which the Railways submitted a formal proposal seeking its transfer.A second parcel measuring 700 metres by 600 metres between Kandivali and Malad has also been identified. Owing to its smaller size, it is proposed to be used for supporting infrastructure such as stabling and pit lines.According to the plan, the terminal will have nine platforms, each 625 metres long, six additional railway lines for train stabling and maintenance, and a 750-metre passenger deck above the platforms. The facility will also have direct connectivity to Kandivali railway station, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway and the city’s road network.“We need new terminals to increase the number of long-distance trains serving the Mumbai region. The Kandivali proposal will also be discussed with the Defence Ministry,” said a senior official, requesting anonymity.