Thane’s Internal Ring Metro Railway Project has entered a new phase as early works begin on a six-kilometre stretch, signalling progress in the city’s ambition to enhance urban mobility. The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MahaMetro) is leading the development, which includes the creation of a central car shed and the tendering of new stations along the corridor.
The car shed, planned at Kasarwadavli across an 18-hectare plot, will serve as the operational hub for the 29-kilometre line. It will feature 42 tracks, a command control centre, and a test track surrounding the facility, enabling maintenance, storage, and operational testing of trains. “This hub is crucial for the efficient running of all services along the Thane Ring Route,” a senior project official said. Tendering is set to commence for five elevated stations at Dongripada, Vijay Nagari, Waghbil, Waterfront, and Patlipada, with a potential sixth station at Manpada or Kashinath Ghanekar pending space availability. This initial six-kilometre section, officials noted, is expected to advance faster due to fewer structural and permission-related constraints, allowing partial operations to precede the full corridor’s completion.
The full line will ultimately feature 22 stations, including two underground stops at the old and new Thane railway stations, while the remaining sections are elevated. Trains will operate bi-directionally every 15 minutes, each with a capacity of approximately 1,500 passengers. Projections estimate daily ridership could reach 8.72 lakh by 2045, reflecting Thane’s growing demand for high-capacity public transport. Financing for the Rs 12,200-crore project will be shared between the state and central governments, supplemented by revenue generation through station naming rights, corporate partnerships, and value capture strategies. Authorities emphasised that coordinating with local civic bodies and traffic management agencies is essential for minimal disruption during construction.
Urban planners note that prioritising early completion of smaller stretches can significantly improve commuter convenience and reduce traffic congestion. A transport expert remarked, “Segmented delivery of metro infrastructure allows citizens to benefit sooner, while also easing integration of sustainable mobility solutions into urban networks.” As Thane advances towards this transformative urban transit initiative, stakeholders highlight the importance of timely execution, environmental safeguards, and inclusive station design to support equitable access for all city residents. With structured planning and robust oversight, the Internal Ring Metro Railway promises to enhance Thane’s sustainable transport landscape and future urban resilience.
Thane Metro Ring Project Starts Early Works On Key Six Kilometre Stretch
