Mumbai Metro: New Lines To Enhance Connectivity Between Airport And Major Hotspots

Mumbai is set to get better connectivity to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) through upcoming Metro projects.

These projects include Line 7A, running from Gundavali Metro station to CSMI airport, and the underground Metro Line 3 (Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ), as reported by The Indian Express.

Mumbai Metro: Line 7A

Mumbai Metro Line 7A serves as an extension of the existing red line, Metro 7, connecting Dahisar East to Gundavali. This project, with a cost of approximately Rs 812 crore, aims to link Andheri East directly to the airport. According to an official from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Metro Line 7A will be operational by December 2025. Tunneling work for the 3.4-kilometre Line 7A has recently commenced. Notably, part of the route will be elevated, running alongside the Western Express Highway and Sahar elevated road.

Mumbai Metro: Line 3 (Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ)

The underground Metro Line 3 is set to provide additional convenience for commuters travelling from Colaba to the airport with the station known as CSMIA T2. This station is nearing completion, with 91 per cent of the work done, and is part of Phase 1 of the underground Metro Line 3, which spans from Aarey to BKC. Phase 1 of Metro Line 3 is expected to be operational by December of this year or early next year.

Both metro lines will directly connect to the airport terminal, unlike the existing airport station, which is part of Metro Line One. Additionally, upcoming Metro Line 1, Line 6, 2A, and 2B will feature interchange stations, further enhancing travel options within the city and its suburbs.

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (MMRC) is responsible for implementing the underground Metro Line 3 project.

Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, the commissioner of MMRDA, emphasised the importance of completing Metro Line 7A in linking the international airport to the MMR region. “This Metro line will serve as a reliable link, seamlessly connecting the western and eastern suburbs of Mumbai, along with South Mumbai, Mira Bhayander and Thane, through a comprehensive network of Metro lines, including 7, 2A, 2B, 9, as well as underground Line 3, Line 4, and Metro 10. The convenience of this connectivity will provide commuters traveling to the airport with a hassle-free journey, offering convenient access to the T2 terminal,” he was quoted as saying.

A MMRC spokesperson told the news agency, “Metro Line 3 is expected to be the busiest single line in Mumbai, connecting multiple major hotspots from Colaba to SEEPZ. Airport stations of MML-3 are the most crucial stations of this corridor as it will connect T1 & T2.” The introduction of these new metro lines will provide commuters with convenient access to the international airport.