August 11, 2025: Thane is undergoing a period of rapid urban transformation, with multiple infrastructure projects progressing simultaneously. Foremost among these is the Wadala–Ghatkopar–Kasarvadavali Metro Line 4, which is advancing steadily towards completion. Authorities have confirmed that trial runs on the line will commence in September, with full-scale operations expected to begin by the end of the year.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde voiced optimism that the much-anticipated metro service will soon become a reality for the city’s residents. He noted that the network, linking Wadala, Thane, Mira-Bhayander, and Mumbai, will be bolstered by an internal metro system within Thane itself. This integrated approach, he said, would play a pivotal role in alleviating the city’s chronic traffic congestion.
Traffic bottlenecks have become an everyday ordeal for the people of Thane. The combination of extensive roadworks, large-scale construction activity, and a rapidly increasing population has slowed vehicle movement to a crawl in several parts of the city. Peak-hour gridlocks have become commonplace, affecting both intra-city and intercity travel, with many commuters spending long, frustrating hours on the road.
City officials believe that the introduction of the metro will mark a turning point in Thane’s urban mobility. The shift from road to rail is expected to significantly ease pressure on the city’s overburdened road network, reduce commuting times, and improve connectivity across the region. For residents weary of endless traffic snarls, the September trial runs represent more than just a technical milestone—they are a tangible step towards a smoother, faster, and more sustainable commute.
Source: News 18