Mumbai: The much-anticipated second phase of Mumbai Metro 3 Aqua Line 2A, connecting Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli, is expected to commence operations by the end of March 2025, according to an official from Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL).
The third phase of the Aqua Line 2B between Acharya Atre Chowk and Cuffe Parade is targeted to commence operations from July, 2025, the official said.
"Attempts are on to offer Phase 2A for Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) inspection in March and subsequent commissioning," said an MMRCL official. However, when asked about the exact launch date, the official stated that it would depend on CMRS certification.
This phase will introduce metro connectivity to Mumbai’s island city, covering six key stations: Dharavi, Shitladevi, Dadar, Siddhivinayak, Worli, and Acharya Atre Chowk. These stations are strategically located in commercial and residential hubs, housing educational institutions, corporate offices, and religious landmarks, making the metro a crucial transit option for thousands of commuters.
The first phase of Metro 3, spanning from Aarey to BKC, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 5, 2024. Since then, it has been recording a daily ridership of approximately 22,000 passengers. With the upcoming extension, ridership is expected to rise significantly as the metro reaches more densely populated areas.
Metro 3, spanning 33.5 kilometers along the Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ corridor, features 27 stations—26 underground and one at grade. As Mumbai continues to struggle with road congestion, the metro’s expansion is expected to provide significant relief to daily commuters, making urban transit faster and more efficient.
