MMRC speeds up Rs 33,000-cr underground metro rail in Mumbai

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) is making progress on its first fully underground metro rail, covering 33.5 km with 26 stations and a depot, involving an investment of Rs 33,000 crore. The eagerly awaited Metro Line 3 Phase 1, stretching from BKC to Aarey, is slated to be completed by December, according to MMRC's Managing Director, Ashwini Bhide. The project aims to transform Mumbai's transport landscape and enhance connectivity to key areas like the airport, Bandra-Kurla Complex, and the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation area.

The line, aptly known as Aqua Line, will connect Seepz in Andheri to Colaba, significantly reducing travel time for the daily commute. Once fully operational, it is expected to carry an impressive 17 lakh passengers per day. Although MMRC aims to commission phase one expeditiously, unforeseen circumstances like late depot access and monsoon-related construction challenges might lead to a slight delay of up to two or three months.

In addition to this milestone, MMRC has also secured approval for the construction of a pedestrian subway linking the upcoming Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) Metro station with the existing CSMT railway station. This development will provide seamless connectivity for Central Railway passengers, offering convenient access to the underground Colaba-Bandra-Seepz Metro-3 station. The project is poised to revolutionize transportation in the financial capital of India.