MMRDA speeds up elevated Metro-5 corridor project

MMRDA informed that it has expedited the Mumbai Metro-5 Corridor (Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan) project and it is destined to be completed by December 2024. This major metro line project aims to ensure hassle-free commuting in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). The 24.90-km elevated corridor will provide faster and much-needed connectivity in areas heavily dependent on the suburban railway. It will also provide interconnectivity with Metro-4 (Wadala-Thane-Kasarwadavali) and Metro-12 (Kalyan-Taloja). Of the 24-km line, a 12.7-km stretch between Kapurbawadi and Bhiwandi connects Kapurbawadi, Balkum Naka, Kasheli, Kalher, Purna, Anjur Phata, Dhamankar Naka, and Bhiwandi. The first pier cap of this stretch near Balkum in Thane was erected recently. The authority has also sought clearance from the Central government for the diversion of 1,971.71 square metres (sqm) of forest land in Balkum as well as of 377.86 sqm of area in Kasheli, Bhiwandi for constructing around 24 piers for the project. MMRDA is looking at implementing 337-km of metro lines in MMR by 2026. The first two lines — Metro 2A (Dahisar-DN Nagar) and Metro-7 (Dahisar E-Andheri E) — are expected to be operational by May this year.