Good News for Mumbaikars! Metro Line 3 Phase 2A Set to Launch Soon, Likely Around May 1-2

Mumbai : In a significant boost to Mumbai’s ever-evolving urban transport network, Phase 2A of the underground Mumbai Metro Line 3—popularly known as the Aqua Line—is expected to become operational in the coming days. The new stretch will connect the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli, significantly enhancing east-west connectivity within the city.

Ashwini Bhide, Managing Director of Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL), confirmed the milestone development during a television interview on Wednesday. She announced that the second phase of the Aqua Line is in its final stages and currently awaits the final clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS), which is expected within the next two days.

While an official inauguration date has not yet been declared, speculation is rife that the launch may coincide with Maharashtra Day on May 1 or align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to the city on May 2.

“With 60 kilometres already operational, Mumbai’s metro footprint is on track to expand to 374 kilometres across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region,” said Bhide. “Once all planned corridors are completed, nearly one crore commuters will benefit from the metro network daily,” she added.

As the city gears up for the anticipated extension, commuters should note a temporary revision in the existing Aqua Line’s service timings. On Thursday, April 25, trains will operate between 6:30 am and 9:30 pm, while on Friday, April 26, services will run from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm. These changes are due to technical adjustments and preparations related to the new phase.

Phase 1 of Metro Line 3, inaugurated earlier this year, spans a 12.44 km stretch from Aarey to BKC, featuring 10 stations and 96 daily services. The route has already slashed commute times between the two major hubs from over an hour by road to just 30 minutes by metro. Ticket fares range from ₹10 to ₹50.

Once fully operational, the 33.5 km underground corridor will connect six major business districts, 30 office zones, 12 academic institutions, 11 hospitals, 10 transit hubs, and 25 cultural landmarks—including providing seamless access to both domestic and international airport terminals.

The launch of Metro Line 3’s Phase 2A marks a crucial step toward realizing Mumbai’s vision of a faster, cleaner, and more efficient public transport system. As the city continues to grow vertically and economically, such infrastructure developments are expected to play a vital role in shaping a smarter and more connected metropolis.