September 19, 2025: Mumbai’s landmark Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) Metro station, located opposite the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters, is nearing completion, raising expectations that services will begin shortly. Recent images shared by a commuter on social media showed the barricades around the site being dismantled, prompting speculation of an imminent opening.
The underground station forms part of Metro Line 3, one of Mumbai’s most ambitious infrastructure projects aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity across the city. Once operational, the CSMT station will offer faster and more convenient travel options, linking South Mumbai’s key commercial districts and heritage precincts.
Beyond its strategic significance, the station has also drawn attention for its striking design. The entrance features a sweeping glass arch, allowing natural light to illuminate the interiors. The sleek architecture has been described as both modern and futuristic, a marked departure from conventional metro station layouts.
Metro Line 3 has been rolled out in phases. The first section, from Aarey Colony to Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC), opened in October 2024 with ten stations. A second stretch, adding six more stations, commenced operations in March 2025. Together, these phases have already transformed commuting patterns in the city.
The final leg—from Worli to Cuffe Parade—is scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 30 September. This corridor will cover several of Mumbai’s busiest hubs, including Mahalaxmi, Mumbai Central, Girgaon, Kalbadevi, CSMT, Hutatma Chowk, Churchgate, Vidhan Bhavan and Cuffe Parade.
According to The Indian Express, this phase alone cost approximately Rs 9,785 crore. The bulk of the funding was provided by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), with contributions from both the Union and Maharashtra governments. To ensure affordability, fares have been fixed between Rs 10 and Rs 70—significantly lower than the cost of equivalent taxi rides.
Source: News 18
