In a bid to expedite the completion of Mumbai’s metro projects, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is set to terminate or not renew contracts with consultants working on four under-construction metro lines. The MMRDA plans to hand over these projects to the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), renowned for its successful metro network in the National Capital Region.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently emphasized the goal of completing at least 50 km of metro rail annually in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). To achieve this, the MMRDA is focusing on improving the pace of work on lines Metro 2B (Andheri West to Mandale), Metro 4 (Wadala to Kasarvadavali), Metro 5 (Thane to Bhiwandi), and Metro 9 (Dahisar East to Mira-Bhayandar). These lines are significantly behind schedule, prompting the MMRDA to reassess its partnerships with current consultants, who lack the incentives to meet timelines.
An MMRDA official noted that DMRC, which has successfully constructed a vast metro network in Delhi and the surrounding areas, would be a key player in accelerating the construction of the Mumbai metro lines. DMRC is already responsible for implementing Metro 2B, the most complex line among the projects.
The Mumbai Metro 2B project, which began in 2016, is particularly delayed. The MMRDA believes that under DMRC’s leadership, this line could be completed within the next two years. Similarly, Metro 4, Metro 5, and Metro 9, which began in 2017, 2020, and 2019 respectively, are all expected to see faster progress.
During a recent review meeting, CM Fadnavis set an ambitious goal for the completion of 50 km of metro lines annually by 2026, with the MMRDA expressing confidence that it will surpass this target with the new strategy.
DMRC has yet to comment on its expanded role in Mumbai’s metro expansion.
