Mumbai Metro 2B Update: Yellow Line to Begin Trial Runs from April 16, Marks Milestone in Eastern Suburb Connectivity

Mumbai, April 14:The long-awaited Yellow Line of Mumbai Metro 2B is finally on track to becoming operational, as a 5.4-km stretch between Diamond Garden in Chembur and Mandale in Mankhurd has been successfully live-charged. This development, marking the activation of the line’s overhead electrical systems, sets the stage for trial runs to begin on April 16 — a date of national significance as it also commemorates the 172nd anniversary of the first train run in India, celebrated as Indian Railways’ Foundation Day.

This crucial phase of Mumbai’s metro expansion marks a major leap in improving east Mumbai’s public transport infrastructure. The Yellow Line 2B is the first metro line in over a decade to serve the eastern suburbs, following the launch of the Blue Line (Metro 1) connecting Ghatkopar.

According to officials, the trial runs will begin with basic integration testing, including checks on rolling stock, signalling systems, and track traction. This will be followed by loaded trials, which simulate passenger conditions. After successful testing, the project will undergo a final safety inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety before beginning public operations.

The Yellow Line 2B, when fully completed, will run 18.2 km from Diamond Garden to DN Nagar in Andheri, with a total of 14 stations. The initial phase includes five key stations: Diamond Garden, Shivaji Chowk, BSNL Metro, Mankhurd, and Mandale Metro, all of which are nearing completion.

The project, originally slated for completion in 2021, faced several delays mainly due to rebidding issues related to the systems contract. However, accelerated progress has been made under the leadership of Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee.

The new six-coach trains, manufactured indigenously by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), boast modern features such as energy-efficient regenerative braking, mobile charging ports, surveillance systems, IP-based passenger announcements, and even dedicated space for bicycles.

A key highlight of this corridor is its interchange with the Mumbai Monorail at Chembur, enabling smoother and faster multimodal travel across the city.

Once fully operational — now expected by December 2026 — the Yellow Line 2B will not only enhance east-west connectivity but also significantly ease road congestion in Mumbai’s bustling eastern corridor.