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The highly anticipated Mumbai Metro Aqua Line, the first phase of the Mumbai Metro 3 line, is poised to open its doors to commuters in October 2024. This announcement was made by Ashwini Bhide, managing director of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC), at a press conference on September 24th. This initial 12.5 km stretch will connect Aarey Colony to the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), marking a significant milestone in Mumbai's public transportation infrastructure.
The Aqua Line is an integral part of the larger 33.5 km Colaba-Seepz-Aarey Metro Line 3 route, which is expected to be fully operational by March or May 2025. The Aarey-BKC segment boasts 10 strategically located stations, providing seamless connectivity to Terminal 1 and 2 of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Metro Line 1 (Ghatkopar-Andheri-Versova stretch) at Marol Naka station. This interconnected network aims to ease congestion and provide efficient travel options for residents and visitors alike.
The Aqua Line will operate with eight trains, providing 96 daily services between Aarey and BKC from 6.30 am to 10.30 pm. On Sundays, the first service will start at 8.30 am. For convenient travel, the minimum fare for the Aarey-BKC stretch has been set at ₹10, while the maximum fare will be ₹50. This initial phase of the Aqua Line is designed to accommodate a daily ridership of 6.5 lakh passengers, showcasing its capacity to handle significant passenger volumes. Once the entire Colaba-SEEPZ-Aarey corridor is operational, the maximum ticket fare will be ₹70.
The operation of the Aqua Line will be handled by a dedicated team of 48 captains, including 10 women. This initiative underscores the MMRC's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The eight-coach Metro trains are designed to run at a maximum speed of 85 kmph, while the average running speed is expected to be 35 kmph. This speed optimization is crucial for ensuring efficient and timely travel, enabling commuters to reach their destinations swiftly.
The project's completion is nearing its final stages, with 93% of the corridor work already finished. The MMRC is currently awaiting approval for the rail line application, while approval for the rolling stock (metro train) has already been granted. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the Aarey-BKC route in the first week of October, signifying the significance of this project for Mumbai's urban development. This inauguration will coincide with the launch of other infrastructure projects in the state, reinforcing the government's commitment to modernizing and enhancing infrastructure for the benefit of its citizens.
Source: Mumbai Metro: Aqua line to be opened in October, ticket fare, route and all you need to know