Mumbai is set to witness a significant transformation in its public transportation system with the upcoming launch of the Mumbai Metro Line 3, the city’s first and only fully underground metro line. The first phase of this ambitious project will commence operations in October, linking Aarey to Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) with 10 stations along a 12.4-kilometre route. This development marks a crucial step in addressing the city’s chronic traffic congestion and enhancing commuter convenience.

The metro line will feature nine trains operating daily, each consisting of eight coaches with the capacity to ferry up to 2,500 passengers. Trains will arrive every 3-4 minutes, with plans to increase frequency to every 2 minutes as more trains are introduced. Once fully operational, Line 3 has the potential to transport approximately 13 lakh passengers each day, significantly easing the burden on Mumbai’s existing transit infrastructure.

Passengers will enjoy modern amenities aboard the air-conditioned coaches, which are designed for comfort and safety. Features include humidity control safes, LCD screens for real-time information and advertisements, digital route map indicators, and CCTV surveillance for enhanced security. The coaches are also wheelchair accessible, ensuring that differently-abled individuals can travel with ease.

The introduction of the Mumbai Metro Line 3 is projected to have a substantial impact on the city’s traffic dynamics. It is expected to reduce vehicular trips by 6,65,000 per day, translating to a decrease in fuel consumption by approximately 3,54,000 litres daily. The overall traffic congestion is anticipated to drop by 35%, while travel times will be significantly reduced, allowing commuters to travel from Cuffe Parade to Aarey JVLR in just about one hour.

Looking ahead, the second phase of the Mumbai Metro Line 3, extending from Cuffe Parade to BKC, is also well underway, with 86% of construction completed. This stretch will encompass 17 stations over a distance of 21.35 kilometres, with 22 trains expected to operate daily. The second phase is anticipated to be commissioned by March 2025, further enhancing the city’s metro network and providing an efficient alternative to road travel.