Daijiworld Media Network - Thane
Thane, Sep 22: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that the country’s longest metro line—spanning 58 kilometres between Thane and Mumbai—will be operational by December 2026, significantly transforming daily travel across the metropolitan region. This mega project will link Mumbai city, the eastern and western suburbs, and Thane city, combining Metro routes 4, 4A, 10, and 11 into one integrated corridor.
Speaking at the trial run of Phase-1 of the Metro Route 4 segment, which connects Gaimukh Junction to Vijay Garden via Ghodbunder Road, the Chief Minister highlighted that the Ghatkopar–Mulund–Gaimukh stretch alone covers 35 km. Of this, 32 km constitutes Metro 4, while 2.88 km is Metro 4A, together encompassing 32 stations at a total cost of Rs 16,000 crore.
When fully operational, the corridor is expected to carry over 21 lakh passengers daily, significantly cutting travel time by up to 75%, reducing road congestion, and offering a safe, eco-friendly alternative to road transport. The state government aims to make all metro lines—4, 4A, 10, and 11—open for public use in phases starting late next year.
To support operations and maintenance, 45 hectares of land has been allotted at Mogharpada in Thane for the construction of metro depots. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who also heads the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), noted that this is India’s first elevated metro project of such scale, and it will play a crucial role in solving Mumbai’s persistent traffic woes.
According to MMRDA, the technical inspection assessed all systems against safety standards set by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). The viaducts, tracks, and overhead equipment have been completed, with software configurations and load testing data now under review. An Independent Safety Assessor will certify the corridor, after which CMRS approval will be required before the line is formally opened to the public.
The project stands as a landmark step in reshaping Mumbai's urban mobility and reducing its carbon footprint, while also significantly improving the daily commute for millions.