The proposed expansion of Mumbai Metro Line 11 towards Bandra Terminus via Dharavi has entered an important preliminary stage, with the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) initiating groundwork for the underground corridor.
As part of the early-stage preparations, MMRC has floated a tender to appoint a specialised agency for conducting underground utility surveys along the planned alignment. The proposed 6.9-km extension will connect Wadala to Bandra Terminus through Dharavi and is expected to strengthen public transport connectivity across central Mumbai and key railway hubs.
According to reports, the surveys will be carried out using Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) technology to identify underground infrastructure and obstacles up to a depth of five metres before civil construction activities begin. The exercise will help detect water pipelines, drainage systems, electricity cables, telecom ducts, and other underground utilities located along the route.
“The scope of work includes detailed mapping of underground utilities along with preparation of plans, photographs and technical reports,” an MMRC official said.
The selected consultant will also coordinate with civic agencies and utility departments to identify underground obstructions and submit a final report within one month of appointment.
The Maharashtra government had earlier approved the extension in March, directing MMRC to expand Metro Line 11 from Wadala to Bandra Terminus via Dharavi. The corridor is expected to pass through one of Mumbai’s most densely populated areas and is being viewed as a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving east-west and north-south urban mobility.
Originally planned as an extension of Metro Line 4 connecting Wadala, Ghatkopar, Thane, and Kasarvadavali, the project has now been redesigned to establish direct connectivity to Bandra Terminus, a major railway interchange in Mumbai.
The broader Metro 11 corridor is ultimately planned to connect Wadala with the Gateway of India through areas such as Nagpada and Crawford Market, improving access to south Mumbai.
The Maharashtra government has estimated the cost of the initial 16.5-km Metro 11 project at Rs 23,487 crore in the 2026-27 state budget. Officials stated that the underground utility mapping exercise marks one of the first major on-ground steps before full-scale construction begins on the corridor.
Source: The Free Press Journal
