Mumbai: Mumbaikars are set to experience a significant enhancement in their commuting options with the upcoming launch of Mumbai Metro 3, the state’s second underground metro line. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has recently invited the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) to inspect and approve the metro rakes. A subsequent invitation for an inspection of the tracks between Aarey Colony and Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) will be extended next week. The inaugural service on this stretch is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.
The first phase of Mumbai Metro 3, known as the Aqua Line, will feature 10 stations over a 12 km stretch, while the full corridor will span 33.5 km and include 27 stations. SK Gupta, Director (Projects) at MMRC, noted, “The application for inspection and clearance of the rolling stock was sent to CMRS last week.” Rolling stock refers to the metro trains that will be used for passenger transport. Ashwini Bhide, Managing Director of MMRC, confirmed that the CMRS would be invited next week to inspect and certify the entire line planned for operation, as per an HT report.
Metro rail officials anticipate the flagging-off ceremony to take place after the 10-day Ganesh festival and before the model code of conduct for the assembly elections comes into effect. The state government and MMRC have already extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the event.
Each metro train is designed to carry 2,500 passengers, with the system expected to handle 42,000 passengers per hour in each direction, operating at a frequency of 3-4 minutes. An initial surge in ridership is anticipated as many people take the opportunity to explore the new route.
The Aqua Line will offer connectivity with both international and domestic airport terminals, making it a key transport option for executives travelling to Bandra Kurla Complex, Andheri East, MIDC, and the SEEPZ jewelry hub. Additionally, this line will connect with Mumbai Metro 1 at Marol Naka, which links to other metro lines at Gundavali and Andheri West, as well as to railway stations at Andheri and Ghatkopar, easing travel across the city’s western and eastern suburbs.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the 33.5-km line was held on August 26, 2014, at Marol, with construction commencing in October 2016.