Mumbai Proposes New Underground Metro Line 11 To Boost Connectivity In South Mumbai
Mumbai is moving forward with plans for a significant expansion of its metro network, as the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has proposed a new underground Metro Line 11. This 17.5-kilometer route from Anik Depot to the Gateway of India, part of the city’s green line, is currently awaiting state government approval. The initiative marks a pivotal step in enhancing public transport, aiming to decongest densely populated areas of South Mumbai and provide a modern, efficient commuting alternative to existing modes of transport.
The proposed Line 11 will largely be an underground corridor, with Anik Depot being the sole ground-level station. Its meticulously planned route will snake through some of the most congested parts of South Mumbai, including Nagpada and Bhendi Bazaar, before extending to iconic locations like the Gateway of India. The project, designed by MMRCL, will require extensive underground construction, utilizing both cut-and-cover and New Austrian Tunneling methods for its 13 stations. Senior officials confirmed that the proposal is undergoing initial clearance by the state’s Urban Development Department before being forwarded to the Union government.
Upon approval, the project will proceed with securing environmental clearances and financial arrangements, potentially involving domestic or international funding agencies. The Line 11 is strategically designed to integrate with existing transport infrastructure, including intersections with Metro Line 4, the Aqua Line (Line 3), Monorail services, and key suburban railway stations like Byculla and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Ridership projections estimate 580,000 commuters by 2031, growing to 869,000 by 2041, significantly reducing reliance on road transport.
This proposed metro line exemplifies a commitment to sustainable urban development, offering an eco-friendly transport solution that reduces carbon emissions and road congestion. It enhances accessibility, fostering equitable opportunities across the city. Such infrastructure advances are vital for Mumbai’s future, supporting its growth while improving the daily lives of countless commuters.
