In a strategic move to improve Mumbai’s urban mobility and reduce congestion during peak hours, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has approved a major service upgrade for Metro Lines 2A and 7. Guided by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the initiative is being executed by Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL).

The upgrade follows a record-breaking ridership of over 300,000 passengers on a single day—8 July 2025—signalling growing commuter reliance on the metro. In response, MMMOCL has deployed three new trainsets, increasing the operational fleet from 21 to 24 and raising the number of daily metro services from 284 to 305.

One of the most notable improvements is the reduction of peak-hour headway from 6 minutes 35 seconds to 5 minutes 50 seconds, aimed at easing platform crowding and reducing wait times. Off-peak frequency remains at 9 minutes 30 seconds to optimise energy usage while maintaining efficiency.

This operational ramp-up comes after a successful pilot run and reflects MMMOCL’s data-driven approach to transit planning. According to Rubal Agarwal, Managing Director of MMMOCL, the decision was based on detailed analysis of commuter patterns and congestion trends.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasised the need for metro services to evolve with rising public expectations, while Deputy CM Eknath Shinde described the expansion as a people-centric initiative. Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee highlighted that the metro’s growing ridership reaffirms MMRDA’s long-term vision under the “Mumbai in Minutes” initiative.

With 305 daily services now in operation, this enhancement not only meets immediate commuter demand but also sets a new benchmark in metro efficiency, accessibility, and urban connectivity for the city’s future.