In what can be termed a monsoon milestone in the much-awaited Dahanu–Virar quadrupling project, actual track-laying work has begun in a section near Palghar. The national freight corridor of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC), linking the WR line near Saphale, is easing some load off the main lines. Additionally, the closure of the Saphale level crossing has paved the way for constructing 15-car EMU local train platforms in the Dahanu-Virar section.

At present, there are only two lines for up and down trains between Virar and Dahanu, four lines between Borivli and Virar, and six lines between Malad and Khar. The Virar-Dahanu quadrupling project, estimated at R3578 crore, is at an advanced stage. All land has been acquired, and construction of station buildings is underway at Virar, Vaitarna, Saphale, Kelve Road, Dahanu Road, and Umroli, along with simultaneous work on bridges. The project’s targeted deadline is June 2027. Once completed, this stretch will allow the largest expansion of suburban services.

According to the latest statistics, the number of daily originating passengers beyond Virar exceeds 20,000. Palghar tops the list with 23,152 passengers, followed by Boisar with 22,770 and Saphale with 20,392.