August 16, 2015: The much-anticipated final phase of Mumbai’s Metro-3 Aqua Line, connecting Worli to Cuffe Parade, has faced a slight delay owing to construction challenges in Kalbadevi but is expected to be operational by the end of August, according to media reports.
The 9.1 km underground corridor will complete the north-south Metro route, linking Aarey, Worli, and South Mumbai’s business hubs. Engineers encountered difficulties in Kalbadevi, where narrow lanes, heritage structures, and crowded streets complicated tunnelling and material movement. Despite these hurdles, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has assured that trial runs are progressing and the section will be ready for launch soon.
Currently, two phases of the Aqua Line – from Aarey to Worli – are functional. With the addition of the final Worli–Cuffe Parade stretch, commuters will benefit from seamless and faster travel across the city. Officials have stated that the opening is targeted before the month’s end.
Ahead of Independence Day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated several transport projects designed to improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion. These include a 2.75 km flyover between Mumbai University and Vile Parle to ease traffic near Santacruz, the Kalanagar–Dharavi bridge to strengthen east-west travel, and a new Metro motormen training centre at Mandale. The training facility is expected to save time and costs as drivers will no longer need to undergo training outside Mumbai.
Source: Mid-day
