Mumbai Metro Line 7A Achieves Final Tunnel Breakthrough Connecting Airport
The under-construction Mumbai Metro Line 7A has achieved a significant milestone with the successful breakthrough of its upline tunnel, marking the completion of the corridor’s second and final tunnel. This pivotal event, which occurred on July 14, directly connects Andheri (East) to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA). The tunnel boring machine, which commenced its drive in November 2023, completed the 1.65-kilometer stretch, requiring the installation of 1178 rings for its lining. With this breakthrough, approximately 61% progress has now been achieved for the complete alignment of the metro line.
Metro Line 7A serves as a crucial extension of the already operational Red Line ML7 (Andheri (E) to Dahisar (E)), featuring a total length of 3.4 kilometers, comprising both elevated (0.94 km) and underground (2.503 km) sections. The corridor includes two stations: an elevated station named Airport Colony and an underground station at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Project authorities successfully navigated numerous complex engineering challenges, including tunneling over the existing Metro Line 3, beneath the ramp of the Sahar Elevated Road, and diverting major underground sewer and water lines using microtunnelling techniques, demonstrating advanced urban infrastructure development capabilities.
This achievement contributes to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority’s broader vision of establishing a comprehensive 337-kilometer Metro network across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Currently, Metro Lines 1, 2A, and 7 are operational, serving thousands of commuters, while the city’s first underground Metro Line 3 has also been commissioned. Construction work on several other lines, including 2B, 4, 5, 6, 9, and 12, is progressing rapidly, with partial openings anticipated by the end of this year or early next year, further expanding Mumbai’s sustainable and efficient public transport system.
This crucial breakthrough significantly advances Mumbai’s vision for sustainable urban mobility and enhanced regional connectivity. The completed tunnel underscores engineering prowess and meticulous planning, bringing the city closer to a seamless, efficient public transport network. Such infrastructure developments are vital for economic growth and improving the quality of life for millions.
