In a significant development for Mumbai’s transportation infrastructure, the Aqua Line, the city’s first underground metro, is scheduled to commence operations on July 24. This announcement was made by BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde, highlighting the government’s efforts to enhance urban transit and alleviate traffic congestion in one of India’s busiest cities.
The Aqua Line, officially known as Metro 3, spans a route of 33.5 kilometers from Aarey Colony to Cuffe Parade, encompassing 27 stops that will connect major areas such as Colaba, SEEPZ, and Bandra. Unlike previous metro lines in Mumbai, which involved private partnerships, Metro 3 has been overseen by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
According to Vinod Tawde’s announcement on social media, the commencement of the Aqua Line fulfills a commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to improve the quality of life for Mumbaikars. The new metro line is expected to significantly enhance urban mobility, accommodating up to 17 lakh passengers daily and allowing 3,000 passengers to board simultaneously.
The project, with an estimated cost of ₹23,136 crore, has been partly financed by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), underscoring international collaboration in Mumbai’s infrastructure development. The government of India has emphasized that the Aqua Line will not only streamline intra-city travel but also contribute to reducing vehicular congestion on Mumbai’s streets.
Currently, Mumbai operates several metro lines, including Line 1, 2A, and 7, with ongoing construction on additional lines across the city. The introduction of the Aqua Line is expected to bolster connectivity, particularly benefiting commuters from South Mumbai who will now have improved access to other parts of the city.
Sources By Agencies
