Following the commencement of the second phase of Mumbai's first underground Metro Line 3, running from Cuffe Parade to Aarey, there has been a steady increase in passenger numbers. Within the first ten days of operation, 4.7 lakh passengers traveled on this metro line, averaging 47,053 commuters daily. An increase in ridership is projected in the coming days.

The second phase of Metro Line 3, covering the stretch from Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to Acharya Atre Chowk, was inaugurated on May 9, with passenger services starting on May 10. This 9.77 km segment includes six operational stations and has significantly improved connectivity between Aarey and Worli Naka. At present, the route from Aarey to Acharya Atre Chowk is functional, enabling efficient east-west travel. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) is aiming to make the entire corridor from Aarey to Cuffe Parade operational by August this year.

The full route of Metro Line 3 will span 33.5 km from Cuffe Parade to Aarey, while the currently operational stretch measures 22.35 km from Aarey to Acharya Atre Chowk. Once fully functional, the corridor is expected to serve an estimated 13 lakh passengers daily, significantly boosting Mumbai’s public transit capacity.

Between October 7, 2023, and May 18, 2024, a total of 47,14,772 passengers used the metro service. From May 10 to May 19 alone, the newly operational route carried 4,70,533 passengers. Of these, 2,04,042 commuters traveled on the BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk stretch of the second phase between May 10 and May 18. The initial response to this phase has been highly encouraging, with the route gaining popularity among devotees visiting the Siddhivinayak Temple, as it has improved convenience and reduced travel time. Authorities expect that once the full 33.5 km corridor is operational, daily ridership could reach 13 lakh, marking a major shift in Mumbai’s urban transport landscape.

News source: Lokmat Times