The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has sharply criticized Indian Railways for its inadequate planning and execution of the long-delayed 5th and 6th lines between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla, Mumbai. Initially announced in 2008, the project has seen only 29% completion of its first phase as of January 2024, despite the disbursement of ₹500.93 crore (56.22%) of the sanctioned ₹890.89 crore budget. The PAC noted a significant misalignment between financial expenditure and actual project milestones, with major costs incurred in land acquisition and civil works without corresponding physical progress. The report also highlighted that contracts were awarded without approved designs, leading to idle resources worth ₹7.06 crore. Land acquisition has been particularly problematic, with only 2,656 sqm of the required 10,139.6 sqm acquired due to legal disputes and delays in resettlement of Project Affected Persons (PAPs). The PAC recommended that the Ministry of Railways establish a dedicated cell for land acquisition and explore successful models from organizations like the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to expedite the process. This project is critical for alleviating congestion in Mumbai's rail network.