Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, May 10: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde on Friday inaugurated Phase 2A of Mumbai Metro’s Aqua Line (Metro 3), marking a major boost to the city’s mass transit network. From Saturday, commuters can travel from Aarey to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli in just 36 minutes, with fares capped at Rs 60 for the full 22km stretch.

The new 9.77km underground segment, running from BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk, includes six stations Dharavi, Shitaladevi, Dadar West, Siddhivinayak, Worli, and Acharya Atre Chowk raising the city’s operational Metro network to 68km.

“This is an engineering marvel, tunnelling under the Mithi river and through dense localities. Our aim is 100km of Metro lines by 2026,” said Fadnavis, who took a ride on the newly launched route.

MMRC will operate 244 services daily from 6:30am to 10:30pm with a train every 6 minutes and 20 seconds. As more trains are added, frequency will improve, especially during peak hours.

The line enhances east-west connectivity, linking key zones like BKC, Worli, and Lower Parel, and provides easier access to landmarks such as Siddhivinayak Temple and Shivaji Park. Officials said the route will reduce traffic load on major roads and take nearly 5 lakh vehicles off the streets.

Deputy CM Shinde said, “This is more than infrastructure it’s about better living, less traffic, and cleaner air.”

The final stretch from Acharya Atre Chowk to Cuffe Parade is expected to open by August, completing the 33.5km Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ corridor, India’s longest fully underground Metro line.

Ticketing is fully digital with smartcards and payment kiosks installed. Fares range from Rs 10 to Rs 60. Fadnavis also announced that a common mobility card covering Metro, Monorail, BEST and suburban rail will be launched soon.