Mumbai Metro Expansion Gains Speed: New Corridors To Open Without Delay; Details Inside

The metro network in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is set to grow at twice its current pace, with the expansion rate increasing from 22-25 kilometres per year to an ambitious 50 kilometres annually, as per the Hindustan Times (HT) report. This announcement was made by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis following a review meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also serves as the Urban Development Minister.

The meeting, held on Saturday, focused on the progress of projects managed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Chief Minister Fadnavis also assessed the work of various departments under the Mahayuti government's 100-day vision plan.

Photo Credit: PTI

Highlighting the progress of Metro-3, the chief minister announced that the second phase, connecting Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and Worli, will be operational within the next three months. The fully underground Metro-3 line is expected to be extended to Colaba by May this year.

Speaking on the construction of new metro corridors, Fadnavis directed the MMRDA to ensure new metro lines become operational before the completion of car sheds, suggesting temporary arrangements to avoid delays. "This year, 50 kilometres of metro lines, including 25 kilometres of Metro-3, should be made operational in the MMR," he told officials, according to the same report.

Metro-3, spanning 33 kilometres, began operations between Aarey and BKC in October last year. The next stretch, between BKC and Worli, will add six stations to the network. Once the second phase is operational, ridership is expected to increase to 1.5 million, eventually reaching 2.5 million when the entire line is completed, Shinde stated, as per the HT report.

The chief minister also reviewed urban development plans for 400 towns across Maharashtra, urging the drafting of plans for Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to be expedited. He emphasised the importance of the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA), which is witnessing rapid growth due to the upcoming Navi Mumbai Airport, expected to open by the end of the year.

This accelerated development marks a significant step in improving connectivity and supporting the region's growing infrastructure needs.