Phase 1 of Mumbai's first underground metro line inches closer to completion; know details

Work on the much-awaited Mumbai Metro Aqua Line 3, being carried out in two phases, is progressing at an impressive speed. Phase 1 of the Metro Line will connect Aarey Colony to BKC while Phase 2 will connect BKC to Cuffe Parade. According to the MMRC (Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation), 95% of the work on the first phase has been completed, including tunnelling.

It is noteworthy that Metro Line 3, which is set to be a 33.5-km-long corridor, will be the first ever underground metro in Mumbai. It will feature a total of 27 stations (1 on ground level and 26 underground stations). Furthermore, the line will take the Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ route.

Trains running on the Mumbai Metro Line 3 will have 9 coaches (excluding the one on standby) and will have the capability to operate at up to 95 km/h. Apart from easing day-to-day commute, Mumbai Metro Line 3 will also enhance connectivity to sites of historical importance, benefitting tourists. For instance, the Hutatma Chowk Metro Station in South Mumbai will be surrounded by the Flora Fountain precinct.

According to MMRC officials, Mumbai Metro Line 3 will significantly reduce travel time for Mumbaikars. For instance, it currently takes around two hours to cover the distance from Aarey Colony to Cuffe Parade by road. Once the Aqua Line commences operations, it will become a 50 minute-journey. That's why this new transport service is being touted as the most-awaited for the city folks.