Mumbai Metro to Launch Four New Lines Partially in 2025
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) is set to witness a significant transformation in its public transportation network in 2025, with the partial opening of four new metro lines. The new routes, comprising lines 2B, 4, 4A, and 9, will span key suburban areas including Thane, Mira Road, and the eastern suburbs of Mumbai, bringing much-needed relief to commuters.
One of the most anticipated milestones will be the launch of the second phase of Metro Line 3, which is expected to open in March 2025. This phase will connect Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli to the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), further enhancing Mumbai’s metro network. According to Maharashtra government officials, 19 metro stations across these four new lines are nearing completion, covering a total stretch of 20.3 km. The longest of these lines will be Line 4, which will be the first metro route to serve Thane and will feature a range of new stations, with plans to eventually connect the suburban area with major Mumbai districts.
Line 4, along with its extension, Line 4A, will serve a total of 10 stations and will offer commuters an easy route from Cadbury Junction to Gaimukh, significantly improving accessibility. These two lines are expected to play a pivotal role in easing traffic congestion in one of the city’s most crowded regions. Line 2B will begin operations with an initial 5.3 km stretch, connecting Mandale in Mankhurd to Diamond Garden in Chembur. This section will include five stations and will eventually link with Line 2A at DN Nagar, further expanding the connectivity in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs. Once fully operational, Line 2B will seamlessly connect with the existing metro lines, including Line 8, which links the Mumbai and Navi Mumbai airports.
Line 9, a key route for residents of Mira Road and Bhayandar, will also see partial completion this year, covering 4.5 km between Dahisar and Kashigaon. This extension will integrate with the existing Line 7, facilitating smooth travel from Gundavali to Dahisar. Once complete, Line 9 will also connect to the planned Line 10, which will link Gaimukh to Shivaji Chowk. Despite the rapid progress, challenges remain. Government sources revealed that the metro depots for these new lines are not expected to be ready in time for the partial launches. Due to a shortage of land for depots, provisional measures, such as the use of inspection pits along the route, are being implemented to ensure smooth train operations.
In response to these developments, AV Shenoy of the Mumbai Mobility Forum has emphasized the need for authorities to prioritize last-mile connectivity and ensure affordable travel for the city’s growing population. The planned expansion of Mumbai’s metro network will be a game-changer for daily commuters, offering an efficient, accessible alternative to the city’s congested roadways. With the completion of these new lines, Mumbai is poised to experience a significant shift in its public transport landscape, fostering better connectivity, economic growth, and environmental benefits. The partial opening of these four lines marks an important step in achieving a robust and sustainable metro system for Mumbai’s future.
