Mumbai's First Underground Metro Line Set to Launch in July
Mumbai is gearing up for a significant transformation in its transportation system with the launch of its first underground metro line in July. This new metro line, stretching 33.5 km beneath the busy city streets, promises to greatly reduce traffic congestion. Project Overview ~ The project, managed by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation, has cost over Rs 37,000 crores. It aims to address the city's ongoing traffic issues by providing a faster and more efficient mode of transport. The metro line starts at Aarey Colony and includes 27 stations, with 26 of them located underground. The extensive tunneling work, covering 56 km, began in 2017 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Phase Launches and Completion ~ The first phase of the metro line is set to launch in July. The completion of the entire project, including the second phase of the tunnel, is expected within the next eight months. This will bring further improvements to Mumbai's transportation network, making travel across the city much easier and quicker. (Source: Google Images) Operational Details ~ The metro will operate 260 services daily, ensuring a frequency of one metro every few minutes between 6:30 AM and 11:00 PM. Commuters can look forward to saving significant time compared to road travel, as the metro will reach speeds of up to 90 km per hour. A journey of 35 km, which typically takes over two hours by road, will be completed in just 50 minutes by metro. The stations included in the metro line are Cuffe Parade, Vidhan Bhavan, Churchgate, Hutatma Chowk, CST Metro, Kalbadevi, Girgaon, Grant Road, Mumbai Central Metro, Mahalaxmi, Science Museum, Acharya Atre Chowk, Worli, Siddhivinayak, Dadar, Sitaladevi, Dharavi, BKC, Vidyanagari, Santacruz, Domestic Airport, Sahar Road, International Airport, Marol Naka, MIDC, SEEPZ, and Aarey Depot. People living near these stations or needing to travel to and from these stations are excited about this new metro line. Benefits to Commuters ~ The new underground metro line will bring many benefits to the people of Mumbai: Reduced Travel Time: The metro will cut down travel time significantly, making daily commutes faster and more convenient. Frequency and Reliability: With 260 services operating daily, commuters will not have to wait long for the next train, ensuring a reliable mode of transport. Less Traffic Congestion: By providing an alternative to road travel, the metro will help reduce traffic congestion on the streets. Convenient Connections: The metro stations are strategically located to connect major parts of the city, making it easier for people to reach their destinations. Excitement and Anticipation ~ Residents near the metro stations are eagerly looking forward to the launch. They anticipate a significant improvement in their daily commutes, with reduced travel time and a more comfortable journey. The new metro line is expected to transform the way people travel in Mumbai, making the city more accessible and less congested.