Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) begins preparations for trial runs on the Gaimukh-Cadbury Junction section of Metro 4 and 4A. Scheduled potentially by mid-September, this partial launch aims to introduce a modern, eco-friendly, and efficient travel option for lakhs of daily passengers navigating the congested Thane roads.
The upcoming trial runs involve deploying two six-coach Metro rakes on the elevated corridor, with the first set already positioned in the city. The remaining coaches are expected to be lifted over the next two nights, with temporary night-time traffic blocks in place on key stretches of the Ghodbunder Highway. Authorities have highlighted the importance of this phased trial approach to ensure safety, operational efficiency, and minimal disruption to city traffic. The Metro 4 corridor connects Wadala to Kasarwadavli, extending to Gaimukh via the 4A line and toward GPO in Mumbai, forming a critical suburban link. Officials emphasise that the partial launch will alleviate commuting pressures on Thane residents, particularly during peak hours, while setting the stage for full operationalisation of the corridor in the near future. Completion timelines for the subsequent Wadala segment remain under review.
MMRDA officials have indicated that passenger operations along the 10km stretch could commence by year-end or early 2026, signalling a major milestone in sustainable urban transport for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The trial runs are being meticulously planned, with advanced monitoring systems and automated controls to test both operational efficiency and passenger safety. From a sustainability perspective, the Metro 4 project represents a zero-emission urban mobility solution, helping reduce vehicular congestion and associated air pollution. By integrating modern transport technologies with elevated infrastructure, the project aligns with broader city goals of sustainable, gender-neutral, and accessible public transit.
Traffic authorities have coordinated with MMRDA to implement temporary diversions during the lifting and placement of rakes. The night-time blocks will ensure safety while maintaining the integrity of ongoing road traffic. Officials have assured residents that operations will resume promptly after these essential preparatory works, with further expansions planned post-festive season. Urban mobility experts highlight that the Metro 4 trial runs are more than a transport upgrade—they represent a shift toward technologically advanced, equitable, and climate-conscious urban planning. The corridor’s design allows integration with existing lines, improving connectivity across Thane and linking key residential and commercial hubs to the city core.
As preparations move forward, commuters and city planners alike are closely monitoring the trial phase, recognising its potential to redefine Thane’s urban transit landscape. If successful, the Metro 4 partial launch could become a blueprint for sustainable suburban rail development across other Indian cities.
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