Mumbai’s ambitious underground Metro 3 line, which aims to revolutionise urban transport by connecting Colaba, Bandra, and SEEPZ, is on track to see the launch of its first phase by September this year.
This update was confirmed by the Managing Director of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC), amid ongoing construction and technical challenges. Phase 1 of the Metro 3 line, spanning from Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to Aarey, is designed to include three primary packages: Package 5, Package 6, and Package 7. These packages encompass key stations such as SEEPZ, MIDC, and Marol. While substantial progress has been made, the project has faced delays primarily due to incomplete mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work. Notably, construction at the airport stations has been hampered by the ongoing work on entry and exit points.
The delays have been particularly evident at T1 station, a crucial commercial hub. Challenges here include late initiation of entry and exit construction and complexities introduced by Mumbai International Airport Limited’s (MIAL) plans for overhead commercial developments. This situation necessitated deeper excavation for the station than originally planned. Temporary entry and exit lobbies are currently being utilised to facilitate passenger movement until the permanent structures are completed.
At Sahar Road station, which is part of Package 6, construction of the ancillary building is nearing its final stages. This includes the installation and testing of escalators, with entry and exit points also approaching completion. The completion of these components is essential for a seamless passenger experience. Before Phase 1 can be fully operational, a comprehensive safety review will be conducted. This includes meticulous inspections of all commuter-related infrastructure, such as lifts, escalators, and staircases. A detailed proposal will be submitted to the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) for certification, a critical step in the commissioning process.
With ongoing efforts and expected completion of the pending work, the commissioning of Phase 1 is anticipated by mid-September. This marks a significant milestone in Mumbai’s metro expansion, promising to enhance connectivity and ease congestion in one of the city’s most vital transport corridors.
