MMRDA receives first 4-coach trainset from Medha-SMH Rail for Mumbai Monorail

Mumbai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a promising development for Mumbai commuters, the city's Monorail service is set to receive a significant technological upgrade. The arrival of the first coach of the four-car mono train at the Wadala depot on Wednesday signals the beginning of a new era for the much-awaited revival of the Monorail services. With the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) commissioning Medha-SMH Rail Pvt. Ltd for the new fleet, hopes are high for improved efficiency and service quality.

This initiative is aligned with the Make in India campaign, with Telangana-based Medha Servo Drives collaborating with Malaysia-based SMH Rail to secure a lucrative contract worth Rs 700 crore. The contract aims to deliver 40 cars, which will be organized into ten four-car trains. Notably, the previous manufacturer, Malaysian company Scomi, is no longer servicing the older Monorail rakes in Mumbai. According to officials, the new Monorail rakes boast advanced technology, ensuring enhanced riding experience, featuring a durable metal body akin to Metro trains, and offering increased frequency.

However, before these trains can be put into public use, they must undergo rigorous trials conducted by the manufacturers. Following this, the Commissioner of Railway Safety will provide the final approval. Once operational, commuters can expect a significant improvement in service frequency, with intervals reduced from the current 20-25 minutes to just five minutes.

The initiative to revitalize the Mumbai Monorail gained momentum in January 2024, when the MMRDA merged the Monorail Project Implementation Unit with the Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation. This move aimed to address the financial challenges facing the Monorail system. Despite efforts to revitalize the service, the Monorail has been struggling financially, with anticipated losses reaching ₹529 crore in 2023-24, up from ₹250 crore in the previous fiscal year. These losses are attributed to the procurement of new rakes and the construction costs associated with building a travelator connecting Mahalaxmi and Jacob’s Circle. Meanwhile, earnings from ticketing remain modest, estimated at ₹13.6 crore.

The introduction of technologically advanced coaches marks a significant step towards the revival of the Mumbai Monorail service. With improved efficiency, enhanced riding experience, and increased frequency, commuters can look forward to a more reliable and convenient mode of transportation in the city.