Thane is set to witness a significant transformation in urban mobility as trial runs of Metro Line 4 and 4A commenced, covering the 10.5-kilometre stretch between Kasarvadavli-Gaimukh and Wadala. However, full operations will be phased, with only four stations expected to serve commuters by December 2025, while the remaining sections up to Cadbury Junction are slated for commissioning by April 2026.
Officials overseeing the project emphasised that the trial runs are crucial for safety validations and operational readiness. Initially, trains will operate with six coaches, although the platforms are designed to accommodate eight-coach trains in the future, ensuring capacity for growing commuter demand. The project, estimated at nearly Rs 16,000 crore, is projected to serve approximately 13 lakh daily commuters initially, rising to 21 lakh once fully operational. Urban transport experts note that the Thane Metro corridor is poised to reduce travel time by up to 75 percent for residents commuting between Thane and Mumbai, easing congestion across heavily trafficked suburban routes. The phased operational plan will see the corridor extend beyond Cadbury Junction by April 2026, eventually connecting Gandhi Nagar and Wadala by October 2027. A further extension to CSMT will create India’s longest elevated metro line at 58 kilometres, providing seamless integration with other lines and regional monorail systems.
Deputy officials described the day as historic for Thane, highlighting the decade-long struggle to secure approvals for the metro project. Once completed, Metro 4 will create critical connectivity loops linking Thane suburbs such as Kalyan, Dombivli, and Bhiwandi with central Mumbai, enhancing commuter convenience while reducing surface vehicular emissions. Six interchange points along the corridor will allow smooth transfers between metro lines and other urban transport modes, aligning with city-wide sustainable mobility objectives. The phased approach, while cautious, reflects adherence to rigorous safety and operational protocols. Transportation authorities underscored the importance of mitigating risks during testing and gradual station openings, ensuring commuter safety while enabling early utilisation of the corridor.
With India increasingly focusing on eco-friendly and gender-neutral public transport solutions, Metro 4 represents a step forward in creating equitable urban infrastructure. Officials highlighted that energy-efficient train systems, modern station designs, and high-capacity services aim to support sustainable urban growth while offering commuters a comfortable, reliable, and efficient travel alternative. As Thane prepares for the partial launch in December, urban planners and commuters alike are optimistic that Metro 4 will significantly enhance regional connectivity, reduce congestion, and contribute to a more sustainable urban environment, while demonstrating the benefits of phased infrastructure rollouts for mega metro projects.
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