Navi Mumbai Metro Commences Operations, Unveiling Fare Structure

Navi Mumbai, 18th November 2023: Navi Mumbai Metro, eagerly awaited by citizens for the past twelve years, commenced its maiden run on Friday, 17th November. The first journey of the Metro set off at 3 p.m. from both Belapur and Pendhar railway stations.

The inauguration of the Navi Mumbai Metro was attended by CIDCO’s Administrative Manager Kailas Shinde, Rajesh Patil, Commissioner of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, City Engineer Sanjay Desai, Deputy City Engineer Shirish Aradwad, along with officials from CIDCO and the Metro Project Company, amid the presence of residents from Navi Mumbai, Uran, and Panvel. Instead of holding a formal ceremony on Thursday to avoid inconveniencing citizens, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde officially ordered the commencement of the Navi Mumbai Metro. Consequently, the inauguration took place under CIDCO’s administration on Friday.

The completion of the Navi Mumbai Metro project, aimed at enhancing the public transportation system in the Navi Mumbai, Uran, and Panvel areas, has resulted in four elevated routes.

Under CIDCO’s initiative, the commencement of Route Number 1 from Belapur to Pendhar, spanning 11.10 km, occurred on Friday. This route encompasses eleven stations and includes a depot at Taloja Panchanand. The first Metro service departed from Belapur railway station at 3 PM. Passengers were urged to gather around this time, as the railway journey was announced to commence. Commuters had been assembling since the launch of the Metro’s operations. The fare structure for traveling on the Belapur to Pendhar route is as follows:

– 0 to 2 km: Rs.10

– 2 to 4 km: Rs.15

– 4 to 6 km: Rs.20

– 6 to 8 km: Rs.25

– 8 to 10 km: Rs.30

– Beyond 10 km: Rs.40 for the first journey, attracting crowds and selfie enthusiasts.

The message about the Metro’s inauguration spread across social media platforms, resulting in a significant crowd gathering at the Belapur railway station. Numerous people were present to witness the first Metro journey. Following the inauguration, CIDCO employees, officials, Metro project authorities, security personnel, Navi Mumbai Police, and railway security were present at the launch event. Passengers were keen to obtain Metro tickets and lined up accordingly.

Kailas Shinde, Administrative Manager, CIDCO said, “Apart from ticket purchases, there was no enthusiasm observed for taking selfies or videos with the Metro. While the Metro was scheduled to commence at 3 PM, commuters had gathered in large numbers around half-past two near the railway station premises. Reserved seating for women ensured their comfort, which was appreciated by female passengers. The realization of Navi Mumbai citizens’ dreams after several years brings immense joy. The Metro will operate from morning till evening, catering to Navi Mumbai residents. CIDCO’s administration, in conjunction with the Central and State governments’ collaborative efforts, has successfully crossed the finish line in implementing the Metro project. The CIDCO administration expresses gratitude to the government for their collaboration.”

Rajesh Narvekar, Commissioner, of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation said, “Today’s moment is a celebration for all. The launch of Metro services in Navi Mumbai signifies a significant achievement for the city’s development, assuring citizens.”

Three Women Appointed as Metro Drivers

In Navi Mumbai, Ankita Naik, Aditi Padiyar, and Anusha Sangave have been appointed as the first three women Metro drivers. All three hold engineering degrees. Although they received training solely in Metro driving, they are also equipped to handle emergencies, medical emergencies, and provide necessary assistance.