The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has successfully conducted the technical inspection and trial run of the Green Line-4 Metro’s priority section, marking a significant step towards operationalising Thane’s first metro. Metro Line 4 and its extension, Line 4A, will connect Mira-Bhayandar to Wadala via Gaimukh and Kasarvadavali.The inspection was flagged off by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratak Sarnaik.Phase-1 of the Thane–Wadala Metro, between Gaimukh and Cadbury Junction, will be opened in two stages — December 2025 and April 2026. Notably, this will be the first metro corridor to commence operations without a car shed, as Gaimukh station has been equipped with pit lines for maintenance and stabling lines for parking. Two trains from Yellow Line-2 have already been deployed for trials, while the corridor’s own trains are under production through an Alstom–L&T joint venture.The priority section covers 4.4 km and four stations — Gaimukh, Govaniwada, Kasarvadavali, and Vijay Garden — and is set to open in December 2025. The entire Phase-1 stretch to Cadbury Junction will be operational by April 2026.An MMRDA official explained that the inspection assessed the readiness of all systems in line with the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) requirements. “The viaduct, tracks, and overhead equipment (OHE) are fully completed. Data collection for load calculation and software configuration was undertaken, while the integration of all systems necessary for safe operations was also verified. An Independent Safety Assessor (ISA) certification process will follow, after which CMRS approval will be sought. Only upon securing all statutory clearances will this corridor be opened to passengers,” the official said.Another official added, “It is a truly historic moment for Thane today. For the first time, the city is getting its own metro, which is a matter of pride for every citizen. This marks the beginning of India’s longest elevated metro corridor – 58 km, which will connect Wadala to CSMT in the south and extend to Mira Road in the north.”The official further said, “It will create new connectivity, new economic opportunities, and jobs across the MMR. I wholeheartedly congratulate MMRDA for their efforts in driving this project forward. With a 35 km length and 32 stations, once fully operational, more than 1.34 million passengers will benefit daily. It will save 50–75% travel time, decongest roads, and provide citizens with safe, eco-friendly, and comfortable transport.”MMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr Sanjay Mukherjee remarked, “For Thane, this project is not merely a commuting solution but a new era of social and economic progress. With the Mogharpada depot, four metro lines will be operated in an integrated manner, enhancing overall efficiency. After securing all statutory approvals, MMRDA will open this corridor soon for Thane and Mumbai. This metro line represents a historic transformation in Thane’s transport system.”News source: Mid-Day