Mumbai’s long-awaited Metro 3, also known as the Aqua Line, is nearing its first phase of operation. Phase 1, which runs between Aarey Colony-JVLR and the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), is expected to launch in the first week of October 2024, with fares ranging from ₹10 to ₹50 depending on the distance traveled. However, once the second phase becomes operational, the fare is expected to increase.
This update came directly from Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (MMRCL) Managing Director Ashwini Bhide, who briefed the media following a special trial run for journalists. She mentioned that the final launch date would be confirmed after receiving certification from the Central Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). Bhide addressed speculations about whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi would inaugurate Phase 1 on October 4, saying that the launch date is still pending CMRS clearance.
Metro 3’s Initial Services
Phase 1 spans 12.34 km and includes 10 stations. Once operational, 96 daily services will run between 6:30 AM and 10:30 PM, with a slightly later start at 8:30 AM on Sundays and holidays. A fleet of nine trains will operate during this phase, with a frequency of 6.5 minutes during peak hours. Impressively, out of 48 train pilots recruited, 10 are women.
Bhide also hinted that Phase 2, which will extend the line from BKC to Cuffe Parade, could be completed by March-April 2025, with 93% of the work already finished. Construction at Worli and Girgaon stations has faced delays but is progressing steadily.
Impact on Commuters and Environment
Phase 1 is expected to serve around 4 lakh commuters daily, significantly reducing road traffic by about 35%. It will also save approximately 3.45 lakh liters of fuel per day, further easing congestion on Mumbai’s roads by reducing vehicular trips by over 6.65 lakh per day.
Cost and Funding
The total project cost for the Aqua Line is ₹37,276 crore, of which ₹30,088 crore has been spent as of August 31, 2024. Notably, a final loan agreement has been signed with the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA), covering 57.09% of the total project cost. This funding has been vital in keeping the project on track despite cost escalations, including an additional ₹2,856 crore for civil systems and rolling stock.
Future Prospects
Once fully operational, the Aqua Line will cater to an estimated 17 lakh passengers daily with a total of 260 services. The MMRCL is also focusing on multi-modal integration at key stations, ensuring better connectivity with other public transportation modes and providing improved amenities like footpaths, seating arrangements, and foot over bridges for last-mile connectivity.
This ambitious project marks a significant milestone in easing Mumbai’s notorious traffic congestion and offering a modern, efficient transit system for millions of daily commuters.
