The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) will begin energising the overhead equipment (OHE) network of Metro Line 2B on April 8. This marks the beginning of the first phase of the 23.6km elevated corridor, a critical segment of the city’s much-awaited metro expansion. Spanning 5.6km between Mandale and Diamond Garden, this stretch will serve as a key milestone in the metro’s operationalisation, offering hope for a faster, more efficient public transport system in Mumbai.
Metro Line 2B, part of the broader Metro Line 2 corridor, aims to connect vital nodes across Mumbai, stretching from D N Nagar in the western suburbs to Mandale in the east, passing through busy commercial and residential areas such as Bandra, Kurla, and Chembur. When fully operational, it is projected to accommodate over 1 million commuters daily, providing much-needed relief to Mumbai’s clogged roads and reducing its carbon footprint. This innovative infrastructure project aligns with the city’s broader commitment to building sustainable, eco-friendly, and gender-neutral public spaces catering to a diverse population’s needs.
The energisation of the OHE network is not just a technical achievement; it is symbolic of the shift toward a more sustainable future for the city. The entire metro line will operate on a 25kV AC OHE system, mirroring the eco-friendly approach seen in other metro corridors across the country. This energy-efficient system supports the broader goal of reducing the city’s reliance on polluting modes of transport, thereby contributing to cleaner air and a healthier urban environment. As MMRDA officials confirmed, the energisation work at the Mandale depot’s test track has already been completed, and the first trainset has successfully been rolled out. This is a crucial step in the process of initiating trial runs and further commissioning activities. Intending to open the Mandale-Diamond Garden stretch before the end of this year, MMRDA is fast-tracking this segment to ease the commuting burden on Mumbai’s residents. The move to roll out the project in phases reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining momentum despite the previous delays that have plagued this project.
One of the most innovative features of the Mandale depot is its unique double-decker structure, designed to maximise space on the 31.4-hectare land in Mandale, Mankhurd. This depot will provide enough capacity to stable up to 72 metro trains, ensuring that the metro system remains efficient and well-maintained as the network expands. The depot’s design is also a reflection of MMRDA’s commitment to sustainable urban development, utilising available space in the most efficient way possible while adhering to eco-friendly principles. Metro Line 2B is expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping Mumbai’s public transport infrastructure. By linking some of the city’s busiest localities, it promises to cut travel times dramatically, enhancing the overall commuter experience. Moreover, it will significantly alleviate congestion on arterial roads, providing a faster alternative for commuters who currently rely on overcrowded buses and suburban trains.
The phased implementation of Metro Line 2B underscores the commitment of the MMRDA to deliver sustainable and resilient transport solutions for the city. Despite challenges in timelines and construction, this energisation marks a key turning point in the project’s long journey. With the government prioritising eco-friendly transportation systems, Mumbai’s Metro Line 2B serves as a blueprint for other cities looking to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and offer citizens a reliable, comfortable, and affordable alternative to traditional modes of transport. As the OHE energisation process unfolds, the people of Mumbai are one step closer to experiencing a cleaner, more sustainable future. The success of Metro Line 2B could inspire further advancements in public transportation projects across the country, signalling a shift towards greener, more sustainable urban mobility.
Mumbai Metro 2B Energisation Starts April 8 Marking Key Milestone
