Metro connectivity to Bhiwandi, Kalyan and Ulhasnagar has moved closer to reality after the Centre approved the realigned Mumbai Metro Line 5 and its Line 5A extension on August 29.
The approval allows the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to proceed with tendering for the remaining sections. The revised alignment was developed to address longstanding challenges involving land acquisition, rehabilitation and conflicts with existing road infrastructure that had delayed the original project.
Thane Bhiwandi section nearing completion
The first 11.9-km phase between Balkum in Thane and Dhamankar Nagar in Bhiwandi is nearing completion and is expected to open in December, according to officials. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 6,741.34 crore, the elevated section will have six stations.
The corridor will also provide an interchange with Metro Line 4, helping improve connectivity across the Thane region.
The original Line 5 was planned as a 24.9-km corridor linking Thane, Bhiwandi and Kalyan. However, extensive rehabilitation requirements and a conflict with the Bhiwandi Bypass Flyover delayed its second phase, prompting authorities to revise the route.
Extended corridor towards Kalyan and Ulhasnagar
Under the revised plan, the second phase of Metro Line 5 will cover 10.48 km between Bhiwandi and Durgadi in Kalyan. The section is estimated to cost Rs 7,326 crore, with part of the Bhiwandi alignment planned underground.
Line 5A will add another 11.83 km to the network at an estimated cost of Rs 4,063 crore. The extension will connect towards Kalyan and Ulhasnagar, with an interchange planned with Metro Line 12 towards Navi Mumbai.
The extended network is targeted for completion by 2030-31.
Stations planned along the Line 5 corridor include Kapurbawdi, Balkum, Kasheli, Kalher, Purna, Anjur Phata, Dhamankar Naka, Bhiwandi, Temghar, Rajnouli, Govegaon, Kongaon West and Kongaon East.
Line 5A and its spur will include Durgadi, Khadakpada, Bhoirwadi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Path, Kalyan, Shanti Nagar, Chhatrapati Shivaji Chowk and Ulhasnagar.
The project is expected to provide an alternative to road and suburban rail networks already facing heavy congestion across the rapidly developing region.
Source: The Indian Express
