The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has launched a large-scale barricade removal and monsoon preparedness drive across multiple metro construction corridors in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region ahead of the 2026 monsoon season.
According to MMRDA, more than 1.14 lakh metres of barricades have already been cleared from completed stretches beneath metro viaducts across various corridors. The initiative is aimed at restoring road space, improving vehicular movement, and ensuring smoother stormwater drainage during heavy rains.
The authority said the exercise has been prioritised in sections where major viaduct construction, pier work, and structural activities have either been completed or reached advanced stages. The move is expected to expand carriageway width and reduce traffic congestion on key arterial roads during peak monsoon months.
The review of the ongoing operations was conducted under the supervision of MMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, along with Additional Commissioners Vikram Kumar and Ashwin Mudgal.
Major progress across metro corridors
MMRDA reported significant progress in barricade removal across several key metro lines:
- Metro Line 2B (D.N. Nagar–Mandale): 18,277 metres removed (88.64%)
- Metro Lines 4 and 4A (Wadala–Kasarvadavali–Gaimukh): 31,706 metres removed (around 92%)
- Metro Line 5 (Thane–Bhiwandi): 11,134 metres removed
- Metro Line 6 (Swami Samarth Nagar–Vikhroli): 28,952 metres removed
- Metro Line 9 (Dahisar East–Mira Bhayander): 17,275 metres removed
- Metro Line 12 (Kalyan–Taloja): 7,174 metres removed
The authority also stated that phased barricade removal is continuing on Metro Line 7A, which connects Andheri East with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.
Government focus on commuter relief
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said metro construction should deliver public benefit even during execution, stressing that restoring road space ahead of monsoon will ease congestion and improve mobility.
Deputy Chief Minister and MMRDA Chairman Eknath Shinde said timely clearance of barricades is crucial for traffic management and commuter convenience, directing maximum carriageway restoration wherever work is complete.
Emergency preparedness strengthened
MMRDA Commissioner Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee said the authority has deployed one of its largest monsoon preparedness systems, including emergency teams, dewatering pumps, safety personnel, and round-the-clock response mechanisms across sites to ensure uninterrupted mobility and commuter safety during heavy rainfall.
Source: Mid-day
