Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, May 9: In a major boost to Mumbai’s urban mobility, the much-awaited BKC-Worli stretch of the Metro Line 3 corridor is set to commence operations today, promising commuters a swift and seamless underground journey of just 30 minutes from Aarey to Worli for a fare of Rs 60.
The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) gave the green signal for the BKC-Worli section earlier this week, paving the way for today's launch following an official inauguration on Friday. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi was initially expected to attend the inaugural event, sources in the state government confirmed that his presence was not feasible due to India’s ongoing military engagement with Pakistan.
The extension marks a significant milestone for the fully underground Metro Line 3, which now stretches 22 km through some of Mumbai’s most densely populated and high-traffic zones. With stations located beneath critical areas such as Dharavi, Dadar, and Siddhivinayak, the line aims to alleviate mounting pressure on the city’s overburdened roads and suburban railway services.
Officials report that the BKC-Worli section will take only 36 minutes to traverse, dramatically improving connectivity between key employment hubs. Though the Dadar Metro station is situated about a kilometre from the suburban railway hub, planners insist that the strategic station placement will substantially boost overall transport efficiency.
Since the Aarey-BKC leg began operations in October 2024, Line 3 has witnessed an average daily ridership of around 25,000. Authorities now expect that figure to rise significantly with the southward expansion into high-density commercial and residential areas.
Originally designed as two separate segments—Aarey to BKC and BKC to Cuffe Parade—the project underwent revisions mid-construction. Operational crossovers were introduced at Acharya Atre Chowk and CSMT, enhancing train movement flexibility and service frequency.
One of the most technically challenging feats of the project was the successful tunnelling beneath the Mithi River, a task that tested the limits of modern engineering.
Metro 3’s network is designed to integrate informally with Metro Lines 2A, 7, and 1, creating a cross-city web that links Mumbai’s western suburbs to the eastern corridors, including Ghatkopar. Commuters can look forward to faster, more reliable transit and reduced congestion on the Western Express Highway and Western Railway routes.
With its blend of modern engineering and urban utility, Metro Line 3 is poised to redefine suburban travel in Mumbai, offering a new era of speed and connectivity for the financial capital.