Mumbai Local Trains, Metro-3 and BEST to Run All Night on December 31 for New Year Celebrations

Mumbaikars planning to step out to welcome the New Year can breathe easy as the city's public transport network is gearing up for all night operations on December 31.

In a major relief for revellers, night shift workers and emergency staff, Mumbai Metro-3, suburban local trains and BEST buses will operate extended services to ensure safe and smooth travel across the city as celebrations continue into the early hours of January 1, 2026.

Metro-3 Aqua Line to Operate All Night on New Year's Eve

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation has announced that Metro Line-3, also known as the Aqua Line, will run through the night on New Year's Eve. According to the corporation, special night services will begin after 10:30 pm on December 31 and continue non-stop until 5:55 am on January 1, 2026. Regular metro services will resume from 5:55 am onwards.

The decision has been taken keeping in mind passenger convenience and safety, as Mumbai traditionally witnesses heavy footfall, late-night events and increased road congestion on December 31. The Aqua Line connects several key parts of the city, and its overnight operation is expected to significantly reduce dependence on private vehicles, easing traffic and parking concerns.

MMRCL has advised commuters to plan their journeys in advance, follow station rules and use the metro responsibly to ensure a smooth travel experience during the festive night.

Extra BEST Bus Services Across Popular New Year Hotspots

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport has also made special arrangements for December 31 night. BEST officials said additional bus services will be available between 11:00 pm and 11:30 pm for passengers travelling to major celebration zones such as Gateway of India, Juhu Chowpatty, Gorai Beach and Marve Chowpatty.

Extra buses will operate on routes C-86, 203 and 231, along with air-conditioned services on routes A-21, A-112, A-116, A-247, A-272 and A-294. In addition, the popular Heritage Tour bus service will run from 5:30 pm on December 31 until the morning of January 1, 2026, depending on passenger response.

BEST has appealed to citizens to make full use of these additional services to avoid road congestion and ensure safer travel during New Year celebrations.

Special Local Trains on Central and Western Railways

Mumbai's suburban rail network will also see extended operations. On the Central Railway main line, one special local train will run between CSMT and Kalyan, and another between Kalyan and CSMT at 1:30 am. On the Harbour Line, special services between CSMT and Panvel in both directions will also operate at 1:30 am.

On the Western Railway, local trains will run between Churchgate and Virar at 1:15 am, 2:00 am, 2:30 am and 3:25 am. In the reverse direction, Virar to Churchgate services will be available at 12:15 am, 12:45 am, 1:40 am and 3:05 am.

To manage crowds, additional GRP and RPF personnel will be deployed at busy stations such as Churchgate, Marine Lines, Girgaon and Dadar. Authorities said the number of security personnel can be increased further if required.

Fire Brigade and BMC Issue Safety Advisory

With large gatherings expected at hotels, pubs, bars and coastal venues, the fire brigade has been placed on high alert. Additional Commissioner Ashwini Joshi urged citizens to remain vigilant while celebrating the New Year.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has also issued an advisory, asking organisers and the public to strictly follow all fire safety norms during public events. Citizens have been reminded to cooperate with authorities to ensure that New Year celebrations remain joyful, safe and incident-free across Mumbai.