JICA approves ¥92.4 billion ODA Loan for Mumbai Metro Line 11

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major boost to Mumbai’s urban transport infrastructure, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has approved an Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan worth ¥92.4 billion (approximately ₹5,000+ crore) for the Mumbai Metro Line 11 (Phase I) project.

The fully underground corridor is set to play a transformative role in enhancing east–west connectivity, reducing congestion, and advancing sustainable urban mobility across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

The loan agreement was formalised in New Delhi between Dr. Alok Tiwari, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Mr. Takeuchi Takuro, Chief Representative, JICA India Office.

This development further strengthens the long-standing India–Japan collaboration in metro rail and high-quality infrastructure development, with JICA already playing a key role in projects such as the Mumbai Metro Line 3 and Delhi Metro.

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRC) has been designated as the executing agency for the project.

Project Scope: Fully Underground Strategic Corridor

Mumbai Metro Line 11 (Phase I) will feature:

• 17.51 km fully underground corridor
• 14 underground stations
• Alignment from Anik Depot to Gateway of India

The corridor is strategically designed to create a critical east–west transit link, connecting key residential, commercial, and heritage zones of Mumbai.

Key Features and Multimodal Integration

The project is notable for its strong focus on integration and future-ready infrastructure:

• Seamless connectivity with Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL)
• Improved access to Mumbai Port Trust redevelopment areas
• Integration with existing and upcoming metro corridors and transport systems
• Enhanced last-mile connectivity and multimodal transport options

This integration is expected to significantly improve passenger movement across the city and reduce dependence on road-based transport.

Addressing Congestion and Environmental Concerns

Mumbai continues to face severe traffic congestion and rising vehicular density. Metro Line 11 is expected to:

• Reduce travel time across key corridors
• Ease pressure on road networks
• Lower carbon emissions and air pollution
• Promote a shift towards public transport usage

The project aligns with India’s broader push toward green and sustainable urban mobility solutions.

Economic and Strategic Impact

Beyond mobility, the corridor is expected to unlock substantial economic value by:

• Enhancing connectivity to business districts and port zones
• Supporting redevelopment and urban regeneration initiatives
• Improving access to Navi Mumbai via MTHL
• Generating employment and boosting regional economic activity

The project also aligns with multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including sustainable cities, climate action, and resilient infrastructure.

Implementation Timeline

• Consultancy tenders: Expected from June 2026
• Civil works tenders: Likely by September 2026
• Target completion: August 2032

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said:

“JICA’s continued investment in India’s metro infrastructure reflects strong global confidence in the country’s urban mobility vision. Mumbai Metro Line 11 is particularly significant as it strengthens east–west connectivity while unlocking redevelopment potential in key port and coastal zones. Such projects are critical for building resilient, low-carbon urban transport systems in megacities like Mumbai.”

With strong international financing and a focus on sustainability, Mumbai Metro Line 11 represents a crucial step toward building a modern, integrated, and environmentally responsible urban transport network.

As Mumbai continues to expand, projects like this will be central to shaping the city’s long-term mobility landscape and economic growth trajectory.