Work on the dedicated maintenance yard for Vande Bharat trainsets at Wadi Bunder in Mumbai has advanced to approximately 15% completion of civil and signalling works, according to railway officials. The progress marks a significant phase in bolstering infrastructure to support the upkeep of these semi-high-speed trains.
Mechanical and electrical system tenders have been finalized, with execution now underway, officials said. The project encompasses the development of five stabling lines designed to accommodate parking and servicing of Vande Bharat trains. A Central Railway officer confirmed that civil construction is advancing steadily while electrical and mechanical installations have entered the implementation stage.
A key feature of the facility is a large covered shed measuring 400 meters in length and 36 meters wide. The structure will incorporate transparent polycarbonate sheets to maximize natural light, alongside solar tubes and roof ventilators aimed at enhancing airflow and reducing energy consumption. The existing inspection overhaul shed will also be extended by 70 meters and equipped with maintenance pits to facilitate under-gear inspections of trains. Additionally, an approach road is planned as part of the overall development.
On the electrical front, activities include installation of lighting within the shed, electrification of the extended sections, and the establishment of a substation to support overhead equipment (OHE) operations. OHE systems will be installed on specified lines to enable traction system testing and proper positioning of Vande Bharat rakes.
As the fleet of Vande Bharat trains continues to expand, dedicated maintenance facilities such as the Wadi Bunder yard are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring quick turnaround times and operational reliability. The new yard is projected to ease the workload on existing depots and support efficient maintenance workflows.
