Cost-effective Metro 9 alternative proposed; may impact fewer families and save ₹500 cr

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is exploring an alternative alignment for the Metro 9 corridor between Bhayandar and Uttan, aiming to save ₹500 crore. The proposed change would bypass three villages along the 5.5-kilometer stretch, substantially reducing costs associated with land acquisition, rehabilitation, and construction.

The current plan, which routes the elevated corridor through the villages of Rai, Murdha, and Morva, faces challenges due to narrower-than-expected roads. This would necessitate the relocation of approximately 900 families, incurring rehabilitation costs of ₹270 crore and land acquisition expenses of ₹300 crore. In contrast, the alternative route, primarily traversing saltpan and marshy lands, would affect only 200 families and require just one station instead of two.

An MMRDA official mentioned that the alternative plan would maintain accessibility for residents of all three villages by including a strategically placed station, adding that constructing each metro station costs around ₹80 crore.

The Metro 9 project, now 87% complete, is scheduled to open partially from Dahisar to Kashi Gaon by June 2025, following safety certifications. The car depot development in Uttan is progressing, with over 50 hectares of government land already secured. This development highlights efforts to optimise costs while ensuring seamless connectivity for Mumbai’s commuters.