Mumbai clears ₹24000 crore Metro Line 11, 268 AC trains, Thane-airport road
Maharashtra has unveiled an ambitious package of infrastructure upgrades, with approval granted for a new underground metro corridor in Mumbai, a dedicated road connecting Thane to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, the purchase of 268 fully air-conditioned suburban trains, and new railway lines in Pune. A township and ring road project in Nagpur have also been sanctioned, reflecting the state’s multi-city strategy to modernise transport and shape sustainable urban growth.
The centrepiece of the decisions is Metro Line 11, a 16-km fully underground corridor linking Wadala Depot to the Gateway of India. With stations planned at key commercial and heritage zones, the line is valued at around ₹24,000 crore and will be financed with international assistance. Experts highlight that the project promises to cut congestion in south Mumbai while offering cleaner, climate-resilient mobility in the city’s historic core.In Mumbai’s suburban network, the green light has been given for the procurement of 268 AC trains under phases 3 and 3A of the Mumbai Urban Transport Project. These modern rakes will replace ageing, doorless trains with safer, energy-efficient rolling stock equipped with closed doors and commuter-friendly facilities. Officials confirmed that ticket prices will remain unchanged, keeping the service accessible to daily passengers even as amenities improve.
The state also approved the construction of a 25-km elevated road corridor between Thane and Navi Mumbai International Airport. Once complete, this link is expected to slash travel times, create direct connectivity for industrial hubs, and relieve pressure on overburdened arterial roads. Urban planners suggest the elevated design will allow faster and more sustainable movement between two of the region’s fastest-growing urban centres.Pune’s rapidly expanding commuter base will benefit from the introduction of third and fourth tracks on the Pune-Lonavala railway stretch. Authorities have argued that the move will improve efficiency and ease pressure on the corridor, while also supporting industrial and residential growth in the region. Two new stations Balajinagar-Bibwewadi and Swargate-Katraj have been cleared as part of the first phase of Pune Metro, strengthening east-west links within the city.
Nagpur has also been placed firmly on the state’s development map. Approvals have been granted for a new ring road and the creation of a township, intended to accommodate the city’s projected expansion and foster balanced urbanisation in central India.Transport analysts view the collective approvals as a strong push towards integrated, equitable, and climate-friendly urban development. By combining metro rail, suburban upgrades, and regional link roads, Maharashtra is positioning its cities for faster mobility, lower emissions, and a more inclusive urban future.
