Mumbai’s first underground Metro rail corridor, Metro Line 3, starts on Wednesday (July 24). This 33.5 km route, also known as the Aqua Line, aims to transform urban commuting by reducing travel time from Cuffe Parade to the Airport from 100 to 50 minutes
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Mumbai’s urban landscape is set for a transformative change with the inauguration of its first underground Metro rail corridor, Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line or Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ Line.
As this groundbreaking transport project begins operations today, here are seven key things you need to know about the Aqua Line:
1. Operational launch and route
The first phase of the Aqua Line will commence today, connecting the Santacruz Electronics Export Processing Zone (SEEPZ) to the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). This initial segment marks a significant step in easing travel across Mumbai’s bustling streets and reducing traffic congestion.
2. Route and coverage
Mumbai Metro Line 3 spans a 33.5 km underground route, linking south Mumbai to the city’s western suburbs. This comprehensive route includes key stations such as Cuffe Parade, Vidhan Bhavan, Churchgate, Hutatma Chowk, CST Metro, Kalbadevi, Girgaon, Grant Road, Mumbai Central Metro, and many others, ultimately connecting SEEPZ and Aarey Depot, according to Mint.
3. Completion and cost
The Aqua Line is 98 per cent complete, with the project’s revised cost standing at ₹37,275.50 crore. This substantial investment underscores the importance of the project in Mumbai’s urban development plan. The project is funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which has provided a significant loan of ₹21,280 crore.
4. Travel time
One of the most notable benefits of the Aqua Line is the significant reduction in travel time. The travel duration from Cuffe Parade to the Airport, which typically takes around 100 minutes by road, will be halved to just 50 minutes with the new metro line. This efficiency is expected to provide immense relief to daily commuters.
5. Service hours and train frequency
Service on the Aqua Line will begin at 6.30 am and continue until 11.00 pm, ensuring that commuters have ample time to travel. Trains will run at intervals of just a few minutes, enhancing convenience and reducing waiting times.
6. Speed
Trains on the Aqua Line will travel at speeds of up to 90 km per hour. This impressive speed will drastically reduce the journey time for the 35 km route, cutting it down from more than two hours by road to just 50 minutes.
7. Facilities for differently-abled individuals
The Aqua Line has been designed with inclusivity in mind. It provides a range of facilities for differently-abled individuals, ensuring accessibility and convenience. Elevators are equipped with call buttons in braille and positioned at a low level for easy reach. Handrails are installed on three sides for support, and an audio-visual announcement system aids those with hearing and visual impairments. Additional features include emergency buttons, a rubber kick rail for wheelchair protection, and elevator widths designed to accommodate wheelchairs comfortably.
With inputs from PTI
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