Mumbai Metro authorities are set to enhance commuter convenience on Line 3 with an increase of 27 daily train trips from January 5, responding to rising passenger volumes and peak-hour congestion. The revised schedule is designed to improve travel efficiency between Aarey JVLR and Cuffe Parade, one of the city’s most heavily used metro corridors.
The upgrade will see weekday services rise to 292 trips daily, while Saturday operations will increase from 209 to 236 trips. Sunday schedules will remain unchanged at 198 trips, ensuring operational stability during lower-demand periods. Officials expect the expanded frequency to reduce waiting times, improve connectivity, and offer a more comfortable commuting experience for daily passengers. Metro planners highlight that Line 3, also referred to as the Aqua Line, has transformed suburban access to South Mumbai since its launch in October 2025. Covering key hubs including Science Centre, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai Central, Grant Road, Girgaon, Kalbadevi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Hutatma Chowk, Churchgate, Vidhan Bhavan, and Cuffe Parade, the line integrates residential, commercial, and heritage precincts, offering multiple entry and exit points aligned with nearby transport nodes and cultural landmarks.
Between October 1 and October 31, the Aqua Line transported over 3.8 million passengers, demonstrating robust daily usage and highlighting the critical role of Line 3 in connecting suburban districts to the city’s business and civic centres. Urban transport experts note that the added services are essential to sustain ridership growth while maintaining operational reliability. The frequency enhancement also aligns with broader urban mobility goals in Mumbai, emphasising sustainable, high-capacity transit solutions. By increasing metro capacity, authorities aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles, curb traffic congestion, and lower carbon emissions along one of the city’s most congested north-south corridors. Analysts highlight that improved scheduling and shorter waiting times can further incentivise public transport use, creating long-term benefits for both commuters and urban air quality.
Commuters are advised to consult the updated timetable for planning purposes, particularly during peak hours when the additional trips will have the greatest impact. A standard one-way journey from Aarey JVLR to Cuffe Parade remains priced at Rs 70, maintaining affordability alongside enhanced service levels. Looking ahead, transport planners indicate that continuous adjustments to service frequency, combined with ongoing infrastructure upgrades, will be critical to ensuring Mumbai Metro Line 3 continues to meet the city’s evolving mobility needs. By strengthening operational efficiency and commuter experience, the Aqua Line serves as a model for integrating high-capacity, climate-resilient public transit into India’s megacity urban fabric.
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Frequency Boosts Commuter Connectivity
