The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has initiated the process for the development of Metro Line 14, a proposed 38-kilometre corridor connecting Kanjurmarg to Badlapur, by issuing an e-tender under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model.
This move is aligned with NITI Aayog’s guidelines to ensure transparency and financial viability. Metro Line 14 is envisioned to be the longest corridor in Mumbai’s suburban transit network, with an estimated daily ridership of seven lakh passengers. The corridor aims to alleviate congestion in the extended suburbs, areas that currently rely on a mix of overburdened roads and railways.
The MMRDA is proceeding cautiously, learning from past PPP ventures that have faced financial challenges. The authority has initiated a market-testing phase by inviting the tender to identify potential private partners. Detailed financial and technical evaluations will follow in subsequent phases. One of the major concerns highlighted by MMRDA is the delay in fare revisions under PPP models, which can affect the long-term sustainability of private investments. The authority is keen to scrutinize the financial strength of bidders early in the process to ensure they can withstand revenue fluctuations.
Interested parties have until 3 PM on July 28 to submit their bids. The project is estimated to be completed within five years once awarded.
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