MUMBAI: Central Railway (CR), acting on court directives, removed 45 illegal huts near BD Chawl in Wadi Bunder, close to Hancock Bridge, clearing land for a proposed Vande Bharat maintenance depot. The structures, along with a two-storey construction, had encroached upon railway land for years. Following due legal process, CR carried out a coordinated demolition drive to reclaim the stretch earmarked for railway use. The reclaimed land is part of the Wadi Bunder yard, where groundwork for the Vande Bharat facility has already begun. Officials indicated that removal of encroachments will help fast-track the project, which is considered crucial for maintaining the new trainsets. Plans for the depot include five stabling lines to park and service Vande Bharat trains.Nearly 60 railway personnel were involved in the operation, with support from the engineering wing, Railway Protection Force (RPF) and city police. A strong security presence was maintained to prevent any disruption. Officials said three earthmovers were deployed, enabling the clearance to be completed in a time-bound manner without any law-and-order issues.A senior CR official said the depot design also features a large covered shed, about 400 meters long and 36 meters wide, aimed at enabling efficient maintenance operations. The structure will incorporate polycarbonate roofing for daylight access, along with solar tubes and roof ventilators to enhance ventilation and reduce power consumption.In addition, the existing inspection overhaul (IOH) shed will be extended by around 70 meters and equipped with maintenance pits for underframe examination of trains. The project blueprint also includes construction of an approach road to improve accessibility.Electrical works form a significant part of the plan, including installation of internal lighting, electrification of the extended sections and a dedicated substation to support overhead equipment (OHE).Railway officials said civil and signaling works have progressed to about 17% so far, while tenders for mechanical and electrical components are nearing finalization. Wadi Bunder yard, among the city’s oldest railway facilities, dates back to 1882 and continues to play a key role in Mumbai’s rail network.
