Mumbai News: Metro Line 2B Begins First Trial Run On Chembur–Mankhurd Stretch

Mumbai: In a key step towards enhancing east-west connectivity in the city, the Mumbai Metro Line 2B (DN Nagar Andheri to Mandale in Mankhurd) began its first trial run on Wednesday on a 5.4-kilometre stretch between Diamond Garden in Chembur and Mandale in Mankhurd.

The much-anticipated corridor, aimed at linking Mumbai’s western suburbs with its eastern edges, saw its first train being tested by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), which is leading the project. Today’s trial was an internal test run, part of a series of assessments that will be followed by inspections from the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS).

According to sources, the partial route will be opened to the public only after all necessary safety certifications are obtained—a process expected to take a few months. This newly energised section features five elevated metro stations: Diamond Garden, Shivaji Chowk, BSNL Metro, Mankhurd, and Mandale. Once operational, these stations are expected to significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity between the city’s eastern and western suburbs.

The first six-coach train set for Metro Line 2B, manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Ltd (BEML), was delivered to the Mandale depot in November 2024 and is now undergoing final performance trials.

Today’s successful trial marks a promising step forward for Mumbai’s expanding metro network, with residents eagerly awaiting the line’s full-scale launch.