Mumbai’s ambitious Metro Line 3 project, also known as the Aqua Line, is set to mark a significant milestone with the opening of its underground section that runs beneath the Mithi River.
The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) is inching closer to completing the second phase of this crucial 9.77-kilometre stretch, which spans from Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli. The line, which has already been partially operational since October 2024, will extend its reach with this new phase, potentially opening to the public by the end of the weekend or early next week, provided safety inspections conclude successfully. The underground stretch of Metro Line 3 is an engineering marvel, particularly because of the challenges involved in constructing a metro line beneath a major waterway like the Mithi River. Once this section is operational, it will greatly enhance the connectivity between key parts of the city, improving travel options for thousands of commuters and relieving some of the congestion currently plaguing the city’s road networks.
The project’s latest phase has already seen partial success, with the segment running from Aarey JVLR to BKC, covering a total of 12.69 kilometres. This partial stretch has already proven to be a game-changer, with daily ridership numbers steadily rising. The upcoming section, extending from BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk, promises to bring Mumbai closer to the completion of this major infrastructure project. However, before this phase can be launched, the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) must complete the final inspections, which began this week. According to MMRC officials, the final safety checks, including an in-depth review of the tunnels and stations, are scheduled to be concluded by mid-week, with officials hopeful that all necessary approvals will be granted. “Once CMRS gives the green light, the underground section could be launched as early as the weekend,” an official from the MMRC stated. “This will be a crucial development for Mumbai’s growing urban transport system.”
The upcoming stretch of the Aqua Line will connect significant locations such as Dharavi, Sitaladevi, Dadar, Siddhivinayak, Worli, and Acharya Atre Chowk. These stations will become vital nodes in the city’s public transport network, offering commuters seamless transfers and reducing travel times significantly. Once completed, the entire Aqua Line, extending 22.5 kilometres and consisting of 16 underground stations, will provide a much-needed solution to Mumbai’s overcrowded streets and overburdened suburban train system. In addition to its transportation benefits, the Aqua Line is expected to contribute to the city’s sustainability goals. The metro system is designed to be an eco-friendly, zero-carbon alternative to traditional modes of transport like cars and buses. By reducing the number of vehicles on the road, it will help alleviate traffic congestion, lower air pollution, and contribute to the city’s efforts to combat climate change.
One of the standout features of the upcoming phase is the tunnel that runs beneath the Mithi River, a major engineering feat in itself. Constructing an underground metro line under an active waterway requires precision, planning, and state-of-the-art technology. The construction team has employed advanced tunnelling methods to ensure the line is both safe and efficient, with no disruption to the river’s flow or surrounding environment. This section’s completion will not only be a triumph of engineering but also serve as a symbol of Mumbai’s growing infrastructure capabilities. Officials have indicated that the full line, extending from Aarey to Cuffe Parade, is slated to be completed by July 2025. Once the final stretch is operational, it will further streamline travel for those commuting between central Mumbai and suburban areas, such as Jogeshwari and Vikhroli. This will provide much-needed relief to passengers on the overcrowded suburban train lines, offering a modern, reliable, and comfortable alternative.
While the completion of the Metro Line 3 project has been eagerly anticipated, experts have noted that the real challenge lies in ensuring that the system operates efficiently after its opening. Officials have emphasised the importance of continued maintenance and operational excellence to guarantee long-term success. “It’s not just about constructing the metro line; it’s about ensuring it remains a reliable mode of transport for years to come,” one official from MMRC said.
As the city’s transport infrastructure continues to expand, the Metro Line 3 project stands as a testament to Mumbai’s commitment to modernisation, sustainability, and environmental consciousness. The completed Metro system promises to transform the daily commute for thousands of Mumbaikars, providing them with a cleaner, faster, and more convenient way to travel. If everything goes according to plan, the Aqua Line’s next phase will be another significant step toward this ambitious goal.
Mumbai Metro Line 3 Underground Section May Open This Weekend
