Mumbai’s newest metro corridor, the fully underground Line 3 — also known as the Aqua Line — recorded a remarkable 38.63 lakh passengers in October, underscoring how swiftly the city’s commuters are adopting mass rapid transit as a preferred mobility option.
According to data shared by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC), the 33.5-kilometre corridor connecting Cuffe Parade in South Mumbai to Aarey in the western suburbs has witnessed robust ridership since its inauguration earlier this month. Officials said over 33 lakh commuters travelled in the first 22 days alone, indicating strong early confidence in the service. The average weekday ridership stood at around 1.41 lakh, with the highest single-day figure reaching 1.82 lakh. These consistent numbers, experts say, signal a positive shift towards sustainable, high-capacity urban mobility in a city struggling with chronic traffic congestion and overcrowded suburban rail services.
The Aqua Line, comprising 27 stations — all underground except the terminal at Aarey — passes through key employment and administrative districts, including Churchgate, CSMT, and the Bandra-Kurla Complex. This alignment directly links major business zones with residential hubs, significantly reducing commute times for thousands of office-goers. To enhance passenger experience, MMRC has introduced digital ticketing systems such as WhatsApp-based ticket purchase and QR-code scanning at entry gates, aiming to reduce paper waste and minimise queuing times. Commuters can now buy tickets via the number +91 98730 16836, a move expected to simplify transactions and encourage contactless travel.
Officials noted that the early response to the line highlights a growing acceptance of public transit as a viable alternative to private vehicles. “The ridership numbers are encouraging and reflect how Mumbaikars are embracing metro connectivity as part of their daily routine,” said an MMRC official, adding that such trends support the city’s broader shift toward sustainable transport. Urban planners view Line 3’s performance as a crucial milestone in Mumbai’s evolving transit ecosystem. Once fully integrated with other metro corridors, the city’s network is expected to carry millions daily, reducing vehicular emissions and improving air quality. The expansion aligns with Mumbai’s long-term goal of achieving cleaner, faster, and more inclusive mobility for all citizens.
As Metro Line 3 continues to attract riders, its success story could become a model for other Indian metros transitioning toward underground, high-capacity systems that prioritise both sustainability and commuter comfort.
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