Mumbai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for Mumbai's transportation landscape, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has concluded the detailed project report (DPR) for extending the Metro 3 underground corridor up to Navy Nagar, Colaba. This proposed extension, if approved, promises to bring transformative changes to the city's metro network, offering enhanced connectivity and addressing the growing demand for efficient public transportation in the bustling metropolis.
The proposed extension aims to add 2.5 kilometers to the existing Metro 3 corridor, stretching it from Cuffe Parade to Aarey, passing through Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). This expansion is poised to accommodate the burgeoning demand for metro services in key areas of Mumbai.
One of the primary benefits of this extension is the potential addition of at least four stabling lines at Navy Nagar. This strategic move is crucial for efficiently managing and increasing the capacity of Metro 3, especially considering the ongoing development of stabling lines at the eco-sensitive Aarey location.
The impetus for this extension comes from the Navy, which houses approximately 1 lakh residents, including a floating population, in Navy Nagar. Naval authorities have expressed the need for improved transportation services, as the current reliance on BEST buses, personal vehicles, and taxis in this congested part of south Mumbai poses challenges.
Recognizing the demand, the Ministry of Defence has formally requested the state government to extend Metro 3 services up to Navy Nagar. The project proposal was subsequently forwarded to MMRC, whose board has already approved the extension.
Upon approval, the extension work is anticipated to begin on the ground, with a projected timeline of 30 months for completing the extended line from Cuffe Parade to Navy Nagar.
With the addition of four stabling lines at Navy Nagar, the Metro 3 corridor is expected to experience substantial benefits. Not only will this reduce the need for constructing additional stabling lines at Aarey, but it will also enable the convenient parking of two trains at Navy Nagar, supplementing the existing terminus at Cuffe Parade.
The finalization of the detailed project report for the Metro 3 extension to Navy Nagar marks a pivotal moment in Mumbai's metro evolution. The potential benefits, including increased capacity, improved connectivity, and streamlined transportation for Navy Nagar residents, underscore the significance of this project. As the proposal moves forward, it holds the promise of transforming Mumbai's metro into a more robust and responsive transit system.