A design oversight that put nearly Rs 250 crore of Mumbai Metro Line 7A construction at risk is approaching a resolution, raising hopes of progress on the airport-bound corridor. The issue involved an additional 2.5 metres of clearance required for overhead electric (OHE) wires along an elevated stretch near Mumbai’s airport.
Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), which operates the airport, has reportedly determined that the extra height will not interfere with aircraft flight paths. However, formal written approval from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is still awaited, according to a senior Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) official.
Construction on the affected section, which had remained largely stalled since early 2025, has now resumed.
Design Oversight Triggered Construction Delay
The elevated viaduct and ramp at Vile Parle East fall within the airport’s funnel zone, where strict restrictions govern the height of structures beneath flight paths.
MMRDA’s consultant, Systra, reportedly failed to factor in the additional 2.5 metres required for the overhead electrification system while preparing the design. The discrepancy meant the proposed structure did not comply with the height clearance granted by the AAI.
The shortfall was identified in early 2025, threatening to force the authority to dismantle and reconstruct nearly one kilometre of the elevated viaduct. The possibility of rebuilding the section risked undoing substantial work and expenditure.
Airport Survey Offers a Way Forward
“In the last month, the issue has neared resolution,” the MMRDA official said. “MIAL conducted a survey of the site and, along with the new Instrument Landing System, called ILS2, found that the extra height needed for the OHE would not come in the path of flights.”
MIAL has reportedly forwarded its findings and recommendations to the AAI. The aviation authority is expected to review the proposal and incorporate any revisions into the relevant height-clearance no-objection certificates.
A source also indicated that MMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Sanjay Mukherjee met Gautam Adani to seek approval for the additional height. MIAL declined to comment, while AAI Western Region chief Pulla Hezekiah said he would examine the matter.
Despite construction restarting, Metro Line 7A’s opening date remains uncertain. Technical difficulties at underground stations, whose locations were adjusted near a drainage channel, continue to challenge construction.
Source: The Indian Express
