September 30, 2025: The Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL), which operates Metro Lines 2A and 7 across Mumbai, has announced plans to monetise available space at its stations by leasing it for retail and commercial use.
The state-run body, a subsidiary of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), has floated tenders to lease 68,166 sq ft of space at several metro stations along these corridors. Officials said the initiative is aimed at strengthening the financial sustainability of the city’s expanding metro network.
The move mirrors a similar strategy by Mumbai Metro One Private Limited (MMOPL), the Reliance Infrastructure-led consortium that operates Line 1, the 11.4-km Blue Line from Ghatkopar to Versova. MMOPL has also sought to diversify its revenue streams through non-fare sources. The plan will be reviewed by a panel set up by the MMRDA, which jointly owns MMOPL with Reliance Infrastructure.
Line 2A, known as the Yellow Line, connects Andheri West to Dahisar East, while Line 7, the Red Line, stretches from Gundavali in Andheri East to Dahisar East. Together, these two corridors carry over 3.3 lakh passengers on weekdays, underlining their importance to Mumbai’s daily commuters.
Rubal Agrawal, Managing Director of MMMOCL, said the leasing model would create opportunities for both businesses and passengers. “Leasing commercial space at metro stations unlocks tremendous commercial potential for entrepreneurs while strengthening MMMOCL’s non-fare box revenue strategy. Retailers benefit from direct access to lakhs of daily commuters, and commuters enjoy a richer, more convenient journey. It’s a win-win model that supports both business growth and public service,” she stated.
By diversifying income sources beyond ticketing, MMMOCL aims to ensure that metro operations remain both financially viable and attractive to businesses looking to capitalise on the city’s high commuter traffic.
Source: Hindustan Times
