Hello Mumbai City Desk:

MUMBAI — Commuters using the iconic Churchgate Railway Station will have to navigate minor disruptions over the next week as western railway authorities have initiated urgent repair and maintenance work on the heritage building.

To ensure passenger safety during the execution of these works, Gate No. 7 and Gate No. 8 have been temporarily closed to the public.

Both affected gates directly face the bustling Marine Drive road, a major transit point for exiting passengers. Speaking to Hello Mumbai News, a senior railway official on the ground confirmed the development and urged passengers to cooperate.

“We are currently chipping off loose plaster from the building’s facade and applying a fresh coat to prevent any structural hazards. For the safety of the commuters, we have temporarily shut down these two gates. Passengers will have to bear with this minor inconvenience for at least one week until the work is completed,” the official stated.

The sudden closure has not only impacted daily commuters but has also dealt a temporary blow to local businesses. Local taxi drivers, who traditionally line up outside Gates 7 and 8 to pick up passengers heading toward South Mumbai and Marine Drive, reported a significant drop in their daily earnings.

“Our business has been badly hit because passengers are now being diverted to other exits. We hope the work finishes quickly so operations can return to normal,” said a local taxi operator.

Churchgate stands as one of Mumbai’s most vital transit hubs, second only to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT). The station serves as a gateway to the city, connecting 30 railway stations along the Western Line all the way to Virar.

Churchgate Station: Quick Facts

• Daily Footfall: Approximately 8 lakh (800,000) passengers.

• Total Entry/Exit Points: 12 gates.

• Current Closure: Gates 7 & 8 (facing Marine Drive).

• Estimated Duration: 7 days.

Commuters are advised to plan their exit routes in advance and utilize the remaining 10 operational gates to avoid overcrowding during peak hours.