Mumbai: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has initiated steps to develop what could become the longest Metro corridor in the country, stretching from Badlapur to Kanjurmarg in Mumbai, through a public-private partnership (PPP). The construction of the ambitious project is expected to start by 2025, as per reports.
A tender was recently floated to find a suitable private partner to execute the 38-km-long Metro Line 14 project, which is expected to be completed within five years of awarding the contract, reported Maharashtra Times.
The corridor is part of MMRDA’s broader vision to ensure that citizens from any part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region can reach the city’s core within an hour. Currently, commuters travelling from Badlapur to Kanjurmarg rely solely on the limited suburban railway services. During the monsoon, when local train services are often disrupted, connectivity is severely affected, making this Metro line crucial for thousands of residents.
According to MMRDA officials, once operational, the Badlapur-Kanjurmarg line is projected to handle up to 7 lakh daily commuters. Significantly, this will be Mumbai’s first Metro line to cross the creek, connecting the central and eastern suburbs more seamlessly than ever before.
IIT Bombay Gives Nod For Mega Project
The project already received a green signal from IIT Bombay, which conducted a detailed project report (DPR). Furthermore, experts from the Milan Metro in Spain have recommended the PPP model for executing the project. Based on this advice, MMRDA has now issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting private companies to partner in the venture. The last date to submit bids under this EOI is July 28. After the initial screening, shortlisted companies will be invited to submit detailed proposals.
Though MMRDA has taken the lead in initiating the process, the final decision will rest with the state government. Reports citing sources confirmed that discussions have already taken place between MMRDA Vice Chairman and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. A final nod is expected after consultations with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and approval from the state cabinet.
Construction Likely To Begin By 2026
Given that Metro projects fall under the jurisdiction of the Union Ministry of Urban Development, the proposal will also be forwarded to the central government for necessary clearances. If all approvals are secured as planned, construction of the corridor is likely to begin by 2026.
Officials believe that this transformative project will significantly boost regional mobility, provide resilience during monsoons, and help decentralize the city’s overburdened transport network.
