Mumbai Metro Line 4 To Operate Sans Depot Rakes Transported From Line 2B
The highly anticipated Mumbai Metro Line 4, connecting Gaimukh in Thane to Wadala in Mumbai, is set to commence operations as the city’s first metro corridor without a dedicated depot. To circumvent delays caused by the unready Mogharpada depot, metro authorities have devised an innovative plan: utilizing idle rakes from Mumbai Metro Line 2B. These trains, currently stored at the Mandale depot in Mankhurd, will be temporarily brought in to facilitate trial runs and system testing, ensuring that commissioning timelines for the crucial 32-kilometre corridor are not further impacted.
In an unprecedented move for Mumbai’s metro history, the operating body has floated an ₹8.28-crore tender for the physical transportation of eight six-coach trains, totaling 48 coaches, from the Mandale depot to the Metro 4 viaduct between Gaimukh and Cadbury Junction. This complex operation is necessary due to the lack of rail connectivity between Metro 2B and Metro 4 corridors. Each 40-tonne coach will be meticulously hauled over city roads using hydraulic multi-axle trailers, with movements primarily conducted at night to mitigate traffic congestion and requiring stringent permissions from multiple civic and traffic authorities.
The Mogharpada depot, intended to serve both Metro Line 4 and its extension, Metro 4A, is experiencing construction delays. The contract for this interim rake transportation is for 24 months, with a potential 12-month extension depending on the depot’s completion. The rakes designated for Metro Line 2B are presently unused as that corridor is still under construction, expected to be operational in the coming years. Metro authorities are also exploring temporary inspection facilities beyond Gaimukh metro station to conduct essential trial runs, including rolling stock integration with signalling, telecom, and traction systems.
This innovative approach highlights Mumbai’s commitment to advancing its urban transport network despite challenges. Ensuring timely commencement of Metro Line 4 will significantly enhance regional connectivity, alleviate congestion, and provide essential modern mobility solutions for thousands of daily commuters.
