Mumbai Metro 3 Conducts Inaugural Journey, Sets Stage for Future Expansion
Mumbai, 11th May 2024: Mumbai’s Metro 3 project, spearheaded by SK Gupta, marks a significant stride with its recent pre-trial run into the island city, setting the stage for future expansions in phases II and III. While the project awaits safety certifications and approvals for commercial operations, delays in meeting deadlines are expected.
The historic moment unfolded earlier this week as a metro train embarked on its inaugural journey along the Colaba-Bandra-Seepz (Metro 3) route, reaching Dadar by Tuesday afternoon after commencing its trip from the Aarey metro station. Notably, Metro 3 stands as the sole corridor serving commuters in South Mumbai, distinguishing itself from other ongoing projects scattered across the suburbs and the wider Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
According to SK Gupta, Director (Projects) of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd, the train’s successful arrival at Dadar heralds a pivotal phase, with plans to extend services further south to the Siddhivinayak Metro station in the pipeline.
Phase II, stretching from BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli, will introduce commuters to Dadar and Siddhivinayak stations upon its completion. While phase I encompasses 10 stations (Aarey-BKC), phase II comprises six stations (BKC-Acharya Atre Chowk). The ongoing trials between Aarey and BKC stations hint at further advancements as the project progresses.
Looking ahead, the focus will shift towards phase III, encompassing a stretch up to Cuffe Parade with 17 stations. Equipped with 19 metro trains, the agency anticipates operating over 260 services during phase I between BKC and Aarey. Initial projections aimed for phase I to commence operations in April, followed by phase II in July and phase III by October. However, the current pace of trial runs suggests potential delays in meeting these targets.
Commercial operations are contingent upon obtaining necessary safety certifications and approvals, underscoring the priority placed on passenger safety and regulatory compliance.
