The Mumbai Metro 3 project has made significant progress in its Phase 1, with nearly 97% of the work completed. The official social media handle of the project recently announced that final testing stages are currently underway. All stations in Phase 1 have been inspected by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)’s Fire Brigade, ensuring safety standards are met.
In addition to the station inspections, critical infrastructure components such as electrical systems are also undergoing final testing. The Mumbai Metro 3 project shared on social media that once all systems are in place, an application will be submitted to invite the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) for a thorough examination of safety aspects.
Initially scheduled to begin on July 24, the launch of the Metro 3 project has been delayed due to pending safety inspections and certification approvals. Despite reports suggesting the imminent start of operations, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has not set a definite date for the Aqua Line’s Phase 1 to commence operations.
According to reports, MMRCL is waiting for the necessary certifications before initiating operations. The first phase, running from Aarey Colony to BKC, will only begin once all approvals are obtained. Eventually, the Aqua Line will stretch from Colaba to Seepz, but the exact date of the inauguration remains undecided.
An official from MMRCL mentioned that the commencement date of Metro 3 operations is pending the inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). The official indicated that MMRCL plans to invite CMRS for inspection within a month to move forward with the launch.
Further details from the official revealed that the civil work is nearly 99% complete, metro station construction is at 97%, and tunnel work is finished. The overall system work stands at 77.6%, depot civil works are at 99.8%, and mainline track work is 87% complete.
The Metro 3 project, spanning a 33.5-km underground corridor along the Colaba-Bandra-Seepz route, features 27 stations, with 26 being underground. Approvals from Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO), Independent Safety Assessor (ISA), and CMRS are necessary for the project. RDSO has completed its investigation, while ISA’s investigation is ongoing.
Currently, MMRCL has a fleet of 19 rakes, sufficient to operate the first phase of the metro. Once operational, the Aqua Line is anticipated to offer 260 services daily, catering to approximately 1.7 million passengers. MMRCL is also working on integrating multi-modal connectivity at stations, enhancing connectivity with other public transport, improved footpaths, seating arrangements, and foot over bridges.