A section of the underground tunnel of Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Mumbai Metro Line 3, was damaged after unauthorised borewell drilling near Metro Cinema in south Mumbai. Authorities have registered a police case following the incident.
The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation lodged a complaint against a private water supplier for causing damage to the metro infrastructure. Acting on the complaint, an FIR was filed, and an investigation is currently underway.
Officials confirmed that “an FIR has been registered in the matter, but metro services continue to run normally without any disruption.” Despite the structural impact, operations on the corridor have not been affected, and trains are running as scheduled.
Authorities emphasised that prior approvals are mandatory for any excavation or drilling activity near metro infrastructure. According to MMRC, “approval is required for any digging or construction activity within a 50-metre influence zone of Metro Line-3 infrastructure.” The agency reiterated the importance of adhering to these regulations, adding that “individuals and agencies must follow these rules and obtain necessary clearances to avoid such incidents.”
As per details shared by a senior police officer, “the incident took place on March 5, when drilling activity led to a small hole on the left side of the underground tunnel.” The breach raised concerns about safety, although no operational disruptions were reported.
The FIR was registered on March 13 at Azad Maidan Police Station under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with relevant sections of the Metro Act, citing negligence that could endanger public safety. According to the news agency, “the accused has been identified as Rambabu Raay, proprietor of Chandrama Water Supply.”
The Aqua Line is a 33.5-km fully underground corridor connecting Cuffe Parade Metro Station to Aarey JVLR Metro Station, forming a key transit link across the city.
Source: NDTV Profit
