Mumbai Metro Line 11 likely to be operational by 2030

Mumbai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development, Mumbai's second underground metro corridor, Wadala-CSMT Metro Corridor (Mumbai Metro Line 11), is undergoing a strategic realignment to enhance connectivity to prominent areas such as Byculla, Fort, and the Gateway of India. The Rs 16,000-cr project, spearheaded by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL), is poised to transform commuting patterns in the city. This ambitious endeavor, which aims to connect Wadala to the southern tip of Mumbai, reflects a forward-thinking approach to urban transportation.

The Mumbai Metro Line 11, entrusted to MMRCL a year ago, has witnessed a strategic shift in its route planning. Originally conceived to connect Wadala and CSMT along the eastern side of the Harbour line, the revised plan involves a westward departure midway. This adjustment aims to align the metro route more effectively with the interests and commuting needs of the residents. By serving high-density population areas and commercial districts, the realigned route addresses key urban transportation challenges, reducing reliance on buses and taxis in congested areas.

The Wadala-CSMT Corridor (Mumbai Metro Line 11) project, estimated at Rs 16,000 crores, spans a 16-kilometer underground route. The northern end of the corridor is Wadala, extending southwards through Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) land. The realigned route navigates through key areas like Byculla, Nagpada, Bhendi Bazaar, and Crawford Market, a bustling hub in the heart of the island city. Further, the underground line extends southward, encompassing CSMT and Horniman Circle, before reaching its southern endpoint at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Chowk at Regal Cinema, a popular tourist district.

To ensure precision in project execution, MMRCL has engaged the expertise of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to prepare a detailed project report for the new corridor. The survey process has been initiated, and upon completion of the report, authorities will move forward with financial arrangements and the finalization of the tendering process. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to delivering a transformative and well-planned metro corridor.

The revised Mumbai Metro Line 11 route includes strategically significant areas such as Crawford Market and its surroundings, recognizing them as key catchment areas for ridership. The decision to move the northern end further north to Anik Depot in Wadala and the inclusion of Antop Hill with central government quarters and dense slum pockets showcase a comprehensive approach to urban connectivity. Metro 11 is envisioned to seamlessly link the Wadala area to the eastern waterfront, weaving through inner-city neighborhoods and concluding at the tourism hub of SP Mukherjee Chowk.

The choice of an underground route has been justified by authorities, emphasizing minimal disruption to long-established patterns of life on the surface. Traversing through densely populated areas with narrow and congested roads, along with heritage sites like CSMT, Regal Circle, and Horniman Circle, the underground route ensures a harmonious integration with the existing urban fabric.

Beyond its immediate transportation benefits, the Metro 11 project is anticipated to trigger an overground real-estate boom along the corridor. Authorities foresee cluster development in areas like Bhendi Bazaar and Nagpada, along with the rehabilitation of slums. The inclusion of Antop Hill aligns with broader urban development goals, providing opportunities for redevelopment, including central government staff quarters.

Mumbai Metro Line 11 emerges as a transformative and forward-thinking project that addresses critical challenges in Mumbai's urban transportation landscape. The strategic realignment, collaborative efforts with experts, and a vision for comprehensive connectivity reflect MMRCL's commitment to delivering a seamless and efficient commute for the city's residents. As Mumbai Metro Line 11 progresses, Mumbai anticipates a new era in urban transportation, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable and integrated development.