Mumbai's new metro lines improves airport connectivity

The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) serves as the overseeing body for the implementation of the underground Metro Line 3. This development promises a significant enhancement in connectivity to the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), thanks to the forthcoming Metro initiatives, namely Line 7A, which extends from Gundavali Metro station to CSMI airport, and the subterranean Metro Line 3, spanning from Colaba to Bandra to SEEPZ.In recent weeks, the excavation work commenced for the 3.4-kilometer-long Mumbai Metro Line 7A—an extension of the red line, also known as Metro 7, which links Dahisar East to Gundavali. This extension will establish a direct connection between Andheri East and the airport.Metro Line 7A, extending the operational Metro Line 7 (Andheri East to Dahisar East), along with the in-progress Metro Line 9, will create a seamless route from Mira Bhayander to the airport. This will drastically reduce travel time to the airport, reducing it from over two hours by road to a mere one-hour journey.Furthermore, the underground Metro Line 3 (Colaba-Bandra-SEEPZ) will provide a convenient means for commuters from Colaba to access the airport station, known as CSMIA T2.Both of these impending Metro lines will transport passengers directly to the airport terminal vicinity, rendering the use of auto-rickshaws or taxis unnecessary, unlike the current situation at the airport station on Metro Line One (Ghatkopar to Versova via Andheri).Beyond offering direct access, the upcoming Metro Line 1, Line 6, 2A, and 2B will also feature interchange stations, further facilitating travel within the city and its suburbs.According to an official from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), Metro Line 7A is projected to commence operations by December 2025.Construction work for this line has already commenced, featuring a partially elevated alignment running parallel to the Western Express Highway and Sahar elevated road. MMRDA is the designated entity overseeing the implementation of Metro Line 7A.Meanwhile, the Metro Line 3 CSMIA T2 station stands at an impressive 91% completion and forms a part of Phase 1 (Aarey to BKC) of the underground Metro Line 3. Phase 1 is anticipated to become operational either by December this year or early the following year.The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) retains its role as the project implementing authority for the underground Metro Line 3.