The central government has approved the revised alignment of Mumbai Metro Line 5, clearing the way for its extension to Kalyan and a spur connecting Bhoirwadi with Ulhasnagar, with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) expected to invite tenders soon for the new sections.
The approval was issued through a notification dated August 28, covering the proposed Metro 5A extension from Durgadi to Kalyan and the Bhoirwadi-Ulhasnagar spur. MMRDA Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee confirmed that the revised alignment has received approval.
The existing Metro 5 corridor, also known as the Thane-Bhiwandi-Durgadi line, includes stations at Kapurbawdi, Balkum, Kasheli, Kalher, Purna, Anjur Phata, Dhamankar Naka, Bhiwandi, Temghar, Rajnouli, Govegaon, Kongaon West and Kongaon East.
Under the revised plan, Metro 5A and its spur will serve Durgadi, Khadakpada, Bhoirwadi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Path, Shanti Nagar, Chhatrapati Shivaji Chowk, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar. Kalyan and Ulhasnagar are emerging as important growth centres within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
The amended plan also includes an underground section in the Bhiwandi area, marking a change from the earlier alignment.
Tenders Expected Soon
MMRDA, which is overseeing construction of Mumbai’s Metro corridors, is expected to issue tenders for the three proposed sections shortly, following which construction work can begin. The Metro 5 car shed is planned at Kasheli.
Kalyan MP Shrikant Shinde has been among the prominent supporters of the extension. The new links are expected to provide an additional public transport option for residents who currently depend heavily on Central Railway’s suburban network. Many commuters in these areas also rely on long-distance trains for daily travel because of limited suburban connectivity.
Metro 5 Phase 1 Nears Completion
The first phase of Metro 5 between Thane and Bhiwandi is nearing completion and is expected to become operational in 2027. The 11.9-km corridor, being developed at a cost of approximately Rs 6,741.34 crore, runs from Balkum in Thane to Dhamankar Naka in Bhiwandi and comprises six elevated stations.
The corridor is also planned to interchange with Metro Line 4, which is expected to open part of its Thane section this year.
The extension towards Kalyan and Ulhasnagar is expected to strengthen eastward connectivity, improve access to major residential and commercial areas and provide commuters with alternatives to the existing suburban rail network.
Source: Hindustan Times
Pic Credit: The Free Press Journal
