The Mumbai Metro 3 project has reached a significant milestone, with 100% track laying now completed for the BKC-Cuffe Parade section. This forms part of Phase II of the Metro 3 project, a 21-km corridor that is set to transform Mumbai’s public transportation landscape. According to officials from the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC), this section is on track for commissioning before the next monsoon, despite ongoing challenges in certain areas.
The completion of track laying for both the up and down lines marks a major step forward in the development of the city’s metro network. The Phase I corridor, which runs from Aarey to BKC, was inaugurated on October 5 and opened to the public on October 7. This initial section, measuring 12.5 kilometers, has seen an encouraging average ridership of 22,000 commuters daily, indicating a strong demand for this metro service. However, the progress of Phase II has not been without its challenges. One of the primary obstacles has been the ongoing utility work at Acharya Atre Chowk, which has caused delays in certain sections of the project. Despite these setbacks, the overall progress of Phase II has reached 88%, with 99% of station and tunnel construction completed and 97.6% of station construction finished. The remaining work includes completing systems installation and the overhead catenary system (OCS), which is nearing 60% completion.
The most difficult aspect of the underground metro project involves the construction of stations in the densely populated areas of Kalbadevi and Girgaum. These neighborhoods, known for their heritage structures, narrow roads, and aging buildings, have posed significant challenges for both construction and disruption management. The ongoing work has affected 423 residential units and 289 commercial properties, while also impacting 20 land parcels and 30 buildings across six non-contiguous blocks. Despite these disruptions, the Metro 3 project promises to enhance connectivity across Mumbai. Once completed, it will provide seamless interchanges with the suburban train network at key stations such as Churchgate, CSMT, Mumbai Central, and Mahalaxmi. The metro line will also pass near important railway stations like Charni Road, Grant Road, and Dadar, ensuring efficient connectivity for commuters traveling across the city. Overall, the Mumbai Metro 3 project continues to make steady progress, with Phase II set to provide an essential boost to the city’s public transport infrastructure, despite the hurdles that remain in its path.
