Mumbai Metro Line-3 Expansion: BKC-Acharya Atre Chowk Set to Open

he second phase of Mumbai's underground Metro Line-3 is nearing its public debut, with final safety inspections underway for the 9.77-km BKC–Acharya Atre Chowk segment. The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) initiated a preliminary review on April 7, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the lead-up to the opening of this section of the Aqua Line, which could begin operations as early as next week.

Since its partial launch in October 2024, Metro Line 3 has been operating between Aarey JVLR and BKC, covering 12.69 km. The BKC-Worli section is awaiting final safety approval, while the last 13-km stretch to Cuffe Parade is expected to be completed by July 2025. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) is overseeing this transformative infrastructure project.

Upon full completion, Metro Line 3—also known as the Aqua Line—will span 22.5 km, featuring 16 underground stations. It will significantly enhance connectivity between Central Mumbai and the Jogeshwari–Vikhroli Link Road. Notable stations in the soon-to-launch segment include Dharavi, Sitaladevi, Dadar, Siddhivinayak, Worli, and Acharya Atre Chowk.

One of the standout engineering feats is the tunnel beneath the Mithi River, part of the section between BKC and Dharavi, which showcases remarkable advancements in underground transit construction. The ongoing CMRS safety audit is evaluating a wide array of factors, including civil works, tracks, electrical systems, emergency procedures, and overall operational safety—critical assessments needed to finalize the approval for public operations.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.