Mumbai’s highly anticipated first underground metro, the Aqua Line, is poised to commence operations on July 24, promising to significantly enhance the daily commute for Mumbaikars. This project, which has been in the works for several years, aims to alleviate traffic congestion and improve urban transit across the bustling metropolis.
The Aqua Line will span a distance of 33.5 kilometres, stretching from Aarey Colony to Cuffe Parade. The route will traverse key areas including Colaba, Bandra, and the Santacruz Electronics Export Processing Zone (SEEPZ). In total, the line will feature 27 stations, making it a comprehensive addition to the city’s transportation infrastructure. Key stops include Cuffe Parade, Vidhan Bhavan, Churchgate, Hutatma Chowk, CST Metro, Kalbadevi, Girgaon, Grant Road, Mumbai Central Metro, Mahalaxmi, Science Museum, Acharya Atre Chowk, Worli, Siddhivinayak, Dadar, Shitladevi, Dharavi, BKC, Vidyanagari, Santacruz, Domestic Airport, Sahar Road, International Airport, Marol Naka, MIDC, SEEPZ, and Aarey Depot.
The introduction of the Aqua Line is expected to revolutionise urban transit in Mumbai, easing travel across the city and significantly reducing traffic congestion. The line’s development marks a critical step in modernising Mumbai’s transport network, offering residents a faster, more efficient mode of travel. In June, the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) successfully completed trials of the rolling stock for the Aqua Line, a key milestone in ensuring the line’s readiness for public use. The project is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), reflecting international collaboration in Mumbai’s infrastructure development.
The Maharashtra government has been keen on expediting the project, setting a goal to complete the Mumbai Metro Line 3 project by the end of December 2024. The first phase of this project will operate between the Santacruz Electronics Export Processing Zone and Bandra Kurla Complex, with the entire project achieving 98 per cent completion. Originally slated for completion by September 2024, the project has seen revised deadlines, and its current cost stands at ₹37,275.50 crore. The Aqua Line’s launch is not only a testament to modern engineering and international cooperation but also a significant leap forward in Mumbai’s quest for an efficient and sustainable urban transit system.
