Mumbai Metro 3 Inches Closer To Launch: PM Modi Expected To Inaugurate Before Maharashtra Assembly Polls
Mumbai is set to welcome its second underground metro line, as the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) prepares for the likely inauguration of Mumbai Metro 3 before the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. The MMRC has already taken a significant step by inviting the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) to inspect the rakes, a crucial step towards making the metro operational. The inspection of the tracks between Aarey Colony and Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) is also scheduled to take place next week.
Phase one of the Mumbai Metro 3, commonly known as the Aqua Line, spans 12 kilometres and will cover 10 stations. When completed, the entire metro corridor will stretch across 33.5 kilometres and include a total of 27 stations. According to MMRC officials, services on this new metro line could be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the launch expected to take place after the 10-day Ganesh festival and before the enforcement of the model code of conduct for the assembly polls.
The metro system is designed to carry 2,500 passengers per train, and it will have the capacity to transport 42,000 passengers per hour in each direction. The frequency of services is expected to be between three to four minutes, ensuring smooth and efficient travel. Officials also anticipate a surge in ridership during the initial days, with many joy riders expected to make multiple trips on the newly inaugurated route.
Mumbai Metro 3 is expected to significantly ease travel for commuters, especially those heading to key business districts like the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Andheri East, and the SEEPZ jewellery hub. The metro will also provide seamless connectivity to both the international and domestic airport terminals. Additionally, there will be an interchange with the existing Mumbai Metro 1 at Marol Naka, allowing passengers to switch between lines for easier access to western and eastern suburbs via other metro stations.
Although the foundation stone for this metro line was laid on 26 August 2014 at Marol, actual construction work began in October 2016. This line is poised to transform travel in Mumbai, offering a modern, efficient alternative to the city's existing modes of transport.
Notably, Mumbai Metro 3 will be the second underground metro service in Maharashtra. Currently, the only partially underground metro service in the state is the Pune Metro, which boasts one of the country's deepest metro stations at Civil Court, located 33.1 metres below ground.
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