September 17, 2025: The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has announced that monorail services will be suspended from September 20 to facilitate a significant upgrade of the network. The move, the authority said, is intended to modernise operations through new rolling stock, advanced signalling technology, and refurbishment of the existing fleet.
“This planned block will allow faster integration of new Rolling Stock, advanced CBTC signalling upgrades, and refurbishment of the existing fleet, ensuring safer, smoother, and more reliable operations for Mumbaikars,” the MMRDA said in a statement.
A key highlight of the upgrade is the introduction of the Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, indigenously developed in Hyderabad. As part of its implementation, five electronic interlockings have been set up across 32 locations, with testing already underway. The project has also installed 260 Wi-Fi access points, 500 RFID tags, 90 train detection systems, and multiple WATC units to support the transition.
In addition, wayside signalling work has been completed, and integrated testing of the entire system is in progress. The CBTC system is expected to reduce headway times, improve safety, and optimize train movements while enhancing real-time coordination between trains and the control centre.
The upgrade also includes a complete refurbishment of the monorail fleet to extend the life of the rolling stock and enhance passenger comfort.
Although the MMRDA has not provided a specific date for the resumption of services, it emphasized that the work is being executed in phases to minimise long-term disruption for commuters. Once completed, the authority said, the modernized system will deliver a more efficient, safer, and reliable monorail service for Mumbai.
Source: CNBC TV18
