Mumbai’s Metro expansion has crossed a critical engineering landmark with the launch of the final U-girder for Phase 1 of Metro Line 4. The completion of all precast structural elements marks a decisive step towards opening the first operational stretch of the long-awaited corridor, with trial runs expected to commence in September and commercial services targeted for December.
Metro Line 4 spans 32.32 kilometres, connecting Wadala in South Mumbai to Kasarvadavali in Thane, across 30 stations. Phase 1, a 6.9-kilometre stretch between Majiwada and Kasarvadavali, will serve six stations—Kapurbawdi, Manpada, Tikujiniwadi, Dongripada, Vijay Garden, and Kasarvadavali. Officials confirmed that with the last U-girder placed, the alignment is now structurally complete, clearing the way for systems integration and safety testing. In parallel, the first set of train coaches for Line 4 were recently lifted onto the tracks near Anand Nagar in Thane, symbolising the transition from civil construction to operational readiness. Over the next few weeks, experts will conduct rigorous safety assessments, track trials, and signalling integration. Only after the completion of these checks and approval from authorities will passenger services be permitted.
According to transport planners, Metro Line 4 has been designed to significantly decongest arterial roads connecting Mumbai and Thane, where traffic gridlocks remain a daily challenge. The line is expected to provide a sustainable alternative to private vehicle use, reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality across the stretch. With trains expected to run at high frequency, the system aims to serve lakhs of daily commuters once fully operational. Officials highlighted that the December target for Phase 1’s launch is ambitious but achievable, given the current pace of progress. Once commissioned, this section will not only provide immediate relief to Thane’s crowded corridors but also act as a critical building block in Mumbai’s long-term plan to integrate multiple metro lines into a seamless urban network.
For a city battling rising pollution, vehicular congestion, and limited road space, the advancement of Metro Line 4 represents more than just infrastructure delivery—it signals a transition towards equitable, climate-conscious mobility. The focus on expanding clean, electric-powered public transit is also aligned with Mumbai’s broader goal of becoming a low-carbon metropolis. As construction shifts towards completion and testing, civic experts note that ensuring affordability and accessibility will be as crucial as engineering excellence. If fare structures remain commuter-friendly and last-mile connectivity is well addressed, Line 4 could redefine the way millions travel between Mumbai and Thane.
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