Mumbai plans Metro Line 11 from Anik Depot to Gateway
As the city anticipates the full operationalisation of the Aqua Line 3, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has initiated plans for an ambitious new underground corridor, Metro Line 11. This proposed 17.5-kilometre line, extending from Anik Depot to the iconic Gateway of India, promises to weave through some of South Mumbai’s most densely populated neighbourhoods, marking a significant leap towards a more integrated, sustainable, and equitable urban transit system for the financial capital.
The strategic blueprint for Metro Line 11, currently awaiting approvals from both state and central governments, underscores Mumbai’s commitment to expanding its public transport backbone. Traversing vital areas like Nagpada and Bhendi Bazaar, the line is designed primarily as an underground network, with only the Anik Depot station situated at ground level. This subterranean approach minimises surface disruption and preserves the city’s intricate urban fabric, aligning with eco-friendly development practices that prioritise efficient land use and reduced environmental impact.
The approval process for such a monumental infrastructure project involves rigorous feasibility studies and detailed reports, progressing through various governmental departments before securing final endorsements and crucial funding. Once financial backing, whether domestic or international, is secured, MMRCL will embark on obtaining essential environmental and legal clearances, followed by a competitive bidding process for project execution. This multi-layered approach ensures due diligence and adherence to regulatory frameworks, vital for sustainable urban development.
Metro Line 11 is envisioned with six-coach trains, and its depot at the Anik-Pratiksha Nagar BEST bus depot, spanning 16 hectares, is strategically located to facilitate seamless integration with existing bus services. More importantly, this new corridor is designed to be a linchpin in Mumbai’s multi-modal transport network, offering crucial interconnections with other metro lines, the Monorail, and key suburban railway stations such as Byculla and CSMT. This integrated approach is fundamental to creating a truly gender-neutral and equitable transport system, providing accessible and efficient mobility options for all citizens.
The expansion of Mumbai’s metro network is a critical component of the city’s long-term vision for a zero net carbon future. By providing a high-capacity, electrically powered public transport alternative, Line 11 will significantly reduce reliance on private vehicles, thereby mitigating traffic congestion, lowering vehicular emissions, and improving air quality across the metropolis. This commitment to green infrastructure is paramount for enhancing the quality of life for Mumbai’s diverse population and fostering a truly sustainable urban environment.
