Mumbai's Metro 3 Phase 2A Nears Launch

28 Apr 2025 CW Team

A major boost to Mumbai’s public transport infrastructure is on the horizon as Phase 2A of the underground Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line, is set to become operational soon. The stretch connects Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli.

The development was confirmed by Ashwini Bhide, Managing Director of Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL), during a television interview.

CMRS Clearance Expected in 2 Days

Bhide stated that the project has reached its final stage and is awaiting the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) clearance, which is expected within two days. Once certified, Phase 2A will become the newest addition to Mumbai’s growing metro network.

"With 60 kilometers already operational, Mumbai’s metro footprint will soon extend to 374 kilometers across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region," she said. Once all corridors are active, the network is expected to benefit nearly 10 million commuters daily.

While no official inauguration date has been announced, there is speculation that the launch could coincide with Maharashtra Day on May 1 or during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit to Mumbai on May 2.

Once the full 33.5 km underground corridor is operational, it is expected to transform commuting by connecting six key business hubs, 30 major office areas, 12 academic institutions, 11 hospitals, 10 major transit points, and 25 cultural and recreational locations. The line will also provide direct access to both Mumbai’s domestic and international airport terminals.

Equipment

03 Dec 2025

ABB India Unveils ACS380-E Drive for High-Performance Automation

ABB India has launched the ACS380-E drive, a next-generation machinery drive designed for automation-centric machine building, adding to its all-compatible drive portfolio. The solution simplifies machine integration and is future-proofed for industrial automation with advanced connectivity, faster commissioning and built-in cybersecurity capabilities.The ACS380-E features integrated dual Ethernet ports for plug-and-play communication with all major industrial automation networks, eliminating the need for separate modules and reducing installation complexity. The drive also supports fast USB-C..

Cement Makers Positive on H2 Demand Outlook

The leading cement producers have posted high single-digit volume growth and better sales realisation in the July–September quarter, setting a positive tone for the second half of FY26. Companies are upbeat on demand prospects, supported by a strong housing sector and continued government spending on major infrastructure projects. UltraTech, Ambuja Cement, Shree Cement, Dalmia Bharat and Nuvoco Vistas recorded revenue growth of up to 18 per cent in the September quarter. The rise was driven by firm realisations, softer input costs and an increased share of premium products. With coal price..

Odisha Targets Role as MSME Hub for Eastern India

Odisha has set its sights on becoming the MSME gateway of eastern India, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said at the Odisha Industrial Conclave 2025, organised by Laghu Udyog Bharati (LUB). Calling the state a land of possibilities, he noted that Odisha has emerged as a leading destination for micro, small and medium enterprises.He said that reforms such as the Go-Swift single-window system now allow project approvals within a day. Odisha has also invested 6.1 per cent of its GDP in infrastructure development, which is expected to further accelerate industrial and MSME growth.Majhi emphasise..