November 29, 2025: The successful execution of Mumbai’s fully underground Metro Line 3 (Aqua Line) has strengthened calls for future Delhi Metro corridors to also be built below ground. This update emerged during a detailed presentation on the planning and delivery of the Colaba–SEEPZ corridor, India’s first entirely underground metro system. The achievement has now become a reference point for upcoming projects, showcasing advantages such as minimal land acquisition, reduced surface disruption, and better urban aesthetics. Officials said the model proves that underground transit is both practical and beneficial in dense metropolitan areas, prompting several new proposals to adopt a similar approach.
Ashwini Bhide, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister and Managing Director of the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation, emphasised that large-scale transport projects like the Metro and Coastal Road are vital for improving mobility in major cities. She noted that initial hurdles—including legal approvals, environmental permissions, technical complexities, and public doubt—were overcome through structured planning. Transparent communication, coordination among multiple agencies, and consistent public engagement helped resolve concerns and ensure clarity. Bhide delivered these insights at the Late BG Deshmukh Memorial Lecture organised by the Maharashtra Chapter of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA). The event was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal as the chief guest, along with IIPA President and former Chief Secretary Swadhin Kshatriya.
Bhide described Metro 3 as not only a technological milestone but also an example of strong social management. Despite years of construction across busy residential, commercial, and heritage zones, public support remained steady due to continuous outreach and regular progress updates shared through digital platforms. She highlighted the project’s adherence to high safety standards and its “zero major accidents” record. Given Mumbai’s growing population and constrained geography, she said integrated transport systems—including underground metros and coastal connectors—are essential for reducing congestion and improving economic efficiency.
She also outlined completed projects such as Atal Setu, the Marine Drive–Bandra Worli Sea Link Coastal Road corridor, and the Navi Mumbai International Airport, alongside ongoing works like the Bandra–Versova connector, Borivali–Thane tunnel, Goregaon–Mulund link, and Orange Gate–Marine Drive underground tunnel. Plans include the Virar–Alibaug Multi-Modal Corridor and Vadhavan Port. Additional Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal added that constructing an underground metro in Mumbai is an exceptional feat that significantly raises public transport standards.
