The commencement of tunnelling works for Mumbai Metro 7A, connecting Gundavali to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), was announced. It was mentioned that this Metro 7A serves as an extension of the red line, also known as Metro 7, which runs from Dahisar east to Gundavali. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), through its civil contractor, had initiated excavation works using the first Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) named T62. The initial drive was anticipated to conclude within a month, followed by the final drive, with the entire tunnelling project scheduled for completion by May 2024. The tunnelling process was described to encompass depths ranging from 28 metres to 12 metres from ground level, ensuring a smooth transition from the underground metro line to the elevated metro line. It was noted that before the commencement of tunnelling works, an underground sewer line had to be relocated. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, expressed that the Metro 7A route would contribute significantly to reducing traffic congestion. He stated that the initiation of tunnelling work marked a significant milestone toward a more accessible future. Details about the Metro 7A corridor were provided, stating that it would be 3.42 km long, featuring a twin tunnel stretch measuring 2.49 km. The alignment of Metro 7A was mentioned to run partially elevated and parallel to the Western Express Highway and Sahar Elevated Road, with an elevated Airport Colony Metro Station situated along AAI Colony. This new line would seamlessly connect to CSMIA, offering direct connectivity not only to the airport but also to the Mira Bhayandar Metro 9 and the Western suburbs Metro 2A and 7. Furthermore, it was noted that with the planned Metro 8, the under-construction Metro 7A would play a crucial role in connecting to the Navi Mumbai International Airport, thereby enhancing overall connectivity in the region. Also read: India's first RC track bed for high-speed rail takes shapeIndo-Bangla railway set for trial run