July 16, 2025: Mumbai’s 32-kilometre Metro 4 corridor, connecting Gaimukh in Thane to Wadala, is set to become the city’s first metro line to begin operations without its intended depot. Due to construction delays at the Mogharpada depot—which was originally planned to serve both Metro 4 and Metro 4A—authorities have decided to repurpose idle rakes from the under-construction Metro 2B and house them temporarily at the Mandale depot for trial runs and system testing.
This interim solution reflects the urgency to provide relief to commuters along the congested Eastern Express Highway, even as it highlights the logistical challenges of executing complex infrastructure projects in Mumbai. Officials confirmed that delaying Metro 4 until the Mogharpada depot was ready would have pushed the commissioning timeline further.
To enable testing and partial operations, the Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL) will transport eight six-coach trains—48 coaches in total—from Mandale to the Metro 4 viaduct between Gaimukh and Cadbury Junction. As there is no direct link between the two corridors, the rakes will be moved via road using hydraulic multi-axle trailers, primarily at night. A Rs 8.28 crore tender has been issued to cover transportation, dismantling if needed, loading, permissions, and insurance, with the contract extendable for up to 36 months depending on depot readiness.
Officials are also exploring temporary inspection setups near Gaimukh station to support initial trials on elevated tracks. Experts acknowledge this as a stopgap, but say it reflects a practical approach to keeping public infrastructure projects on track.
Metro 4 is expected to ease pressure on the suburban rail and road networks and improve connectivity between Mumbai and Thane. While questions remain about the environmental cost of moving coaches by road, the project is part of a larger push toward sustainable, high-capacity public transport in the city.
Source: Urban Acres
