Mumbai’s expanding metro network has moved closer to another major milestone, with Metro Lines 4 and 4A receiving safety clearance for their rolling stock from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS). The approval brings the corridors closer to commencing passenger services, although some mandatory clearances are still awaited.
According to The Times of India, a partial launch could take place later this year, initially covering the 10.5-km Gaimukh-Cadbury Junction section. The stretch will have 10 stations: Gaimukh, Govaniwada, Kasarvadavali, Vijay Garden, Dongripada, Tikuji-ni-wadi, Manpada, Kapurbawdi, Majiwada and Cadbury Junction.
The safety approval has been granted to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and Maha Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL). Once the remaining certifications are obtained, the initial service could operate with six rakes.
An unusual aspect of the planned launch is that the corridor may begin operations before its dedicated depot is ready. The proposed Mogharpada depot on Ghodbunder Road is still under development. Until then, trains will be stationed and maintained at Gaimukh, where a maintenance pit has been constructed. The station has two island platforms and four tracks, with two designated for passenger services and two for rake maintenance.
The rakes specifically ordered for Metro 4 and 4A have not yet been delivered. As a temporary arrangement, trains operating on Metro Lines 2A, 7 and 9 from the Charkop depot are expected to be deployed on the new corridor.
The complete Metro 4 network will connect Wadala, Ghatkopar, Kasarvadavali and Gaimukh across approximately 35.2 km. Metro Line 4 covers 32.32 km, while Line 4A extends 2.88 km between Kasarvadavali and Gaimukh.
Trial runs began in September 2025, initially covering the Gaimukh-Govaniwada-Kasarvadavali-Vijay Garden section.
For commuters across Thane and the Ghodbunder Road region, the latest safety clearance marks a crucial step towards improved public transport and reduced dependence on heavily congested roads.
Source: Curly Tales
