Mumbai Aqua Line Metro Shows Early Structural Failures

06 Apr 2026 CW Team

The Aqua Line metro in Mumbai, built at a reported cost of Rs 370 bn, is showing multiple signs of deterioration within months of phased opening. The underground corridor runs 33.5 kilometres from Aarey JVLR to Cuffe Parade and serves 27 stations but began reporting maintenance and structural complaints soon after sections opened between October 2024 and October 2025. The scale and timing of these faults have prompted concern among commuters and engineers.

Reports from multiple stations describe badly maintained amenities and visible damage that has not been repaired. Marble panels above urinals have detached at some locations and torn cardboard has been used as a temporary filler while leaking pipes have been left with plastic buckets to catch drips. Tiles and grout are cracked in corridors and washrooms, and lifts and electrical fittings have been reported to malfunction during peak hours.

More troubling are signs that point to possible construction defects rather than ordinary wear. Marble cladding is peeling, grout lines are failing and wide cracks have appeared on staircases next to escalators at several locations. Water seepage has produced brown stains and damp patches on ceilings and walls, raising questions about waterproofing for an underground network where keeping water out is critical.

Some stations exhibit hazards that may jeopardise passenger safety and require urgent attention. Loose metal plates hang overhead and gaps between escalators and walls have been observed, while staff have reported slippery walkways due to cleaning without adequate safeguards. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited was approached for comment and has not issued a public response, and the emergence of these issues so soon after inauguration has led calls for independent inspection, remedial work and clearer maintenance protocols.

Infrastructure Urban

06 Apr 2026

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